Former Saco mayor sues over MERC odors

SACO – Former Saco Mayor Mark Johnston is suing Maine Energy Recovery Co. over odors emitted from the trash-to-energy incinerator across the border in Biddeford.

Johnston’s lawsuit in York County Superior Court accuses the company, operated by Casella Waste Systems Inc., of being a habitual nuisance under Maine law.

Johnston, who lives near the waste-to-energy plant, said he had no alternative other than to file suit. “The truth is MERC stinks,” he said.

Ken Robbins, general manager of Maine Energy, had no comment on the lawsuit. He said he wanted to read the complaint before making a statement.