‘Better Take Another Look’

“Better Take Another Look” (editorial, Dec. 5), regarding the hazardous waste incinerator to be built in Vernon, misses the point and contains some incorrect assumptions and information. There is nothing “magical” about an environmental impact report. The procedures in California allow for initial review of the design and operational characteristics of a proposed facility as a means of determining if an EIR is needed. The design and operational features of the incinerator are such that four separate agencies have determined that an environmental impact report is not necessary.

The incinerator was located in Vernon by design because the entire city is highly industrialized and a significant volume of the hazardous wastes produced in the greater L.A. area are generated in Vernon. Though there are no homes immediately adjacent to the site, a public health risk assessment was completed. The South Coast Air Quality Management District and the California Department of Health Services reviewed the risk assessment and determined that the incinerator emissions and associated health risks were substantially below guideline levels and that there would be no significant health risks during both normal operations and emergency events.

The SCAQMD, in not requiring an EIR considered: incinerator characteristics and operational requirements, personnel training, hazardous waste receipt and handling procedures, spill prevention and cleanup, traffic flow, fire prevention, air quality, health impacts, alternatives to the project, and unavoidable and irreversible impacts.

There already have been several “full-dress” reviews of all the health and environmental impacts. These reviews have already provided all the information an EIR report could. During these reviews, there were three meetings where public comments were received.

It has taken 3.5 years and over $3 million to design the project, prepare the numerous environmental documents, and obtain all the necessary permits.

The legal action filed by Los Angeles is not based on a genuine concern for public health. Rather, it is a crass attempt to gain ground in the political battle between City Hall and Sacramento for the loyalty of the Latino community.

Without responsible means for disposal of hazardous wastes generated in the greater Los Angeles area, all citizens are being exposed to significant health risks.

DONALD B. BRIGHT

CTTS Project Manager

Environmental Audit, Inc.