Alpena Mayor Matt Waligora issued a statement to residents and visitors of Alpena on Monday addressing the strong odor that covered a portion of the city this past weekend. He said the city is working to find the cause of the smell and make sure it is addressed.

“Personnel of every department within the City of Alpena are working to identify the source of the odor concentrated on the north side of town,” Waligora said in his letter.

“The Air Quality Division of EGLE is assisting as well and the staff at Decorative Panels International (DPI) have been cooperative in our effort. I have personally toured their facility during times of odor, as well as the Waste Water Treatment Plant and various other locations and have not been able to confirm the origin.

Until we officially confirm the source, we are not eliminating any possibilities. I understand your frustration and feel terrible for residents that have to smell this at home. Please know that we are all working to find a solution and welcome your constructive input and ideas related to the source.

The most effective means of communicating your concerns or report strong odors is to email Environmental Engineer Becky Radulski radulskir@michigan.gov or website entry at www.michigan.gov/air, or City Engineer Steve Shultz at steves@alpena.mi.us. Please include your location, description of the odor, date/time, and wind direction.”