SIMI VALLEY : Panel Rejects Site for Toxic-Waste Center
The Simi Valley Planning Commission unanimously rejected a proposal for a toxic-waste collection center Wednesday night, saying that although the project is good, a better location will have to be found.
The proposed center at 5th Street and Pacific Avenue would have permitted Simi Valley residents to drop off motor oil, latex paint, auto batteries and antifreeze, which would be picked up by qualified haulers within 90 days. There would be no cost to residents.
According to a city report, eight other locations in the city were considered but rejected because of problems with parking, traffic, safety, lease restrictions, remoteness, vandalism, the presence of wetlands and the potential for dumping during closed hours.
But planning commissioners said the selected site, although near a fire station, was too close to a residential area.
“There has got to be a better place in this city for the collection of hazardous waste than in a residential area,” Planning Commissioner Barbara Williamson said.
The City Council will have the final decision on the project if city staff members appeal the Planning Commission’s decision.
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