Lake Asphalt Paving and Construction owner Donnie Mantle said he''s moving out equipment for the next few weeks for a highway construction project in another part of the state.

But he''ll be back though, he said.

It''s bittersweet news to residents along Route 5, who welcomed the sight of the missing equipment and dread its return when the project is done and Mantle returns to continue projects he''s started here in the area.

''This was a previous engagement I''ve had scheduled for weeks now. I applied for the permits six or seven weeks ago,'' Mantle said.

In the past few weeks, the asphalt plant has drawn fire from neighbors who complain the emissions are too dangerous to be so close to houses, other businesses and a busy road.

One neighbor has placed homemade signs at the end of his driveway criticizing the plant''s emission and pollution output.

Mantle has continued to insist that he has complied with every state law and regulation and has not received any violations.