A Ramsey County judge has ordered principle areas of a Minneapolis metal shredding facility to shut down because of pollution concerns.

 

The company, Northern Metals Recycling, has been working with Becker city officials to make the move to the industrial park. Northern Metal Recycling boasts that they are the upper midwest’s leading metal recycler and if relocated, they could be bringing  approximately 90 full time jobs to the community.

 

The order by District Judge John Guthmann  Monday  bars Northern Metals Recycling from restarting the principle areas affected until the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency either issues a modified air permit, or until the company proves that the operations don't contribute to air quality violations along the Mississippi River in north Minneapolis.

 

MPCA Commissioner John Linc Stine said Wednesday that his agency is still studying the details, but it's pleased with the judge's decision.

 

Northern Metals Recycling has said that it's environmentally responsible and that it complies with its permit requirements.

 

Rep. Jim Newberger of Becker has been working at the state level to help Northern Metal Recycling's efforts to relocate from Minneapolis to Becker. The judge’s order this week may put a halt to the project.