Local News in Brief : Martinez Asks Delay of Incinerator Work
Rep. Matthew Martinez called Tuesday for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to delay a proposed hazardous waste incinerator in Vernon until project officials complete an environmental impact study.
Martinez (D-Montebello), a member of the House subcommittee on environment, energy and natural resources, said he has requested that a federal hearing be held in the Los Angeles area within the next few weeks to examine the incinerator’s potential threat to the environment and surrounding community. “There are a lot of questions that need answering,” he said.
Last week, the State Department of Health Services--in a reversal of an earlier decision--approved California Thermal Treatment Services’ plans to build the incinerator without completing an environmental impact report.
The $29-million incinerator, which would burn solvents, industrial liquids and infectious debris from hospitals, needs EPA approval. Project manager Donald Bright said he expects the agency to approve the permit within six weeks.
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