Heffley Requests Expanded Air Monitoring Near AZR Plant - EPA to hold public meeting on Oct. 2
HARRISBURG – In advance of next week’s public meeting regarding the federal study of air quality near the American Zinc Recycling (AZR) facility in Palmerton, Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) has asked the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to expand the testing program.
In a letter to DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell, Heffley requested that DEP “monitor for other particulate matters, as well as conduct additional air monitoring and sampling around the facility.”
“It is my understanding that there are two locations outside of the facility that test for air quality,” wrote Heffley. “Due to the health concerns raised by the (federal) report, I would urge the PA DEP to add additional monitors for data.”
Heffley noted that continued air monitoring has not recorded lead levels above the government standard since 2015, and the public should be reassured that their health is currently not at risk.
Heffley said he appreciates the open dialogue concerning AZR between the federal and state agencies, which he commended for taking correction action.
Heffley plans to attend the public meeting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has scheduled on Tuesday, Oct. 2, to provide residents of Palmerton and surrounding communities with information related to the recent air quality report. Federal and state officials will be on hand to answer questions.
Heffley’s letter to McDonnell is attached.
Representative Doyle Heffley
122nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andy Briggs
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abriggs@pahousegop.com
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