FR 2024-28615

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a notice regarding a proposed settlement agreement involving the acquisition of a 2.32-acre property by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) in Joliet, Illinois. This property forms part of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project. The agreement mandates the IDNR to enroll the property in the Illinois Site Remediation Program (Illinois SRP), conduct thorough investigations to detect any contamination in soil and groundwater, and undertake necessary cleanup activities. The EPA is currently inviting public comments on this proposal, with a submission deadline of January 8, 2025.

General Summary

As part of efforts to manage the Brandon Road Interbasin Project in Joliet, the EPA has put forward a settlement that defines how the prospective land acquisition should proceed, including measures to address environmental concerns. It specifically requires the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to conduct environmental cleanup and remediation actions to tackle any contamination present at the site.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise from this document that may warrant attention:

1. Lack of Cost Details: The notice does not provide information regarding the financial implications for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, leaving questions about the resources required for this agreement and the financial burden it may impose on the agency and taxpayers.

2. Liability and Risk: The document mentions protections related to "Existing Contamination," which may shield the involved parties from certain liabilities. However, it does not clearly outline potential future risks or liabilities that could arise from these protections.

3. Complex Terminology: Technical references such as "Illinois Site Remediation Program" and legislative acts like the "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act" may be difficult for the general public to understand without additional explanation.

4. Public Comment Process: While public comments are invited, the document does not detail how these comments might impact the final agreement. There is a lack of transparency concerning the process for modifying the settlement if significant concerns are raised.

5. Submission Preferences: Although various methods for submitting comments are mentioned, the document does not clarify which method is most preferred beyond indicating a general preference for online submissions, potentially causing confusion for the public.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broadly speaking, this proposal could carry significant environmental implications. Success in identifying and mitigating contamination would likely benefit the local environment and public health. However, without clarity on financial aspects, the community might be concerned about potential tax impacts or resource allocation by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

For stakeholders specifically involved, such as local residents, environmental groups, and businesses near the site, the agreement presents both positive and negative possibilities. On one hand, effective remediation could enhance property values, mitigate environmental concerns, and provide assurances against potential contamination risks. On the other, there may be concern over the adequacy of the planned remediation efforts and the sufficiency of resources dedicated to addressing these issues.

Ultimately, the engagement of the public in providing comments is crucial and can substantially influence how the proposed settlement is perceived and perhaps modified. The EPA's actions and stakeholders' feedback could ensure a balanced approach that maximizes environmental and community benefits while mitigating economic and logistical concerns.