At the recent Titusville Environmental Commission Meeting held on Wednesday, March 13th, 2024, local developer Jesse Wright, owner of the Titusville Mall, voiced significant concerns regarding groundwater contamination stemming from Cumberland Farms’ property.

The meeting shed light on the ongoing environmental impact of the contamination at the Cumberland Farms at Country Club Drive and Hopkins Avenue and its potential repercussions for the nearby community.

Wright pointed out that the contamination has persisted for 18 years and poses a threat to the groundwater. He emphasized the proximity of Cumberland Farms to crucial infrastructures such as electric lines and neighboring properties, including his own property, the Titusville Mall.

Wright shared concerns about the direction of groundwater flow, indicating that the contamination appears to be moving towards the mall and nearby residential areas. He presented photographs depicting extensive drilling activities and barrels containing unidentified substances on the Cumberland Farms site, raising questions about potential chemical injections into the ground.

Wright expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability from Cumberland Farms, noting their reluctance to provide satisfactory answers to his inquiries. He highlighted the absence of essential safety measures, such as using an Organic Vapor Analyzer (OVA) to detect harmful gases emanating from the ground.

Commission members and concerned citizens voiced their support for Wright’s efforts and echoed his calls for urgent action. Suggestions were made to involve the City Council and expedite investigations into the extent of contamination to safeguard public health and safety.

Lisa McCotter, a resident living near the affected area, emphasized the community’s desire for clean water and urged swift remediation efforts. Her sentiments resonated with others present, reflecting a collective concern for the well-being of Titusville residents.

In response to Wright’s plea for assistance, the Environmental Commission unanimously agreed to recommend to the City Council that immediate steps be taken to address the contamination issue. The recommendation aims to prioritize public safety and expedite the resolution process.

Watch this recorded part of the meeting below