FR 2025-00476

The document is a notice issued by the Department of Energy announcing an upcoming meeting of the Environmental Management Site-Specific Advisory Board (EM SSAB) in Portsmouth. This meeting is scheduled for February 18, 2025, and will be held at The Ohio State University in Piketon, Ohio. Key topics include clean-up activities, environmental restoration, waste management, and future land use. The notice observes the Federal Advisory Committee Act's requirement for advance public notice.

General Summary

The main purpose of the meeting is to gather input and provide updates on issues such as site clean-up, waste management, and environmental stewardship related to the Department of Energy’s operations in the Portsmouth area. The meeting encourages public participation by allowing both oral and written comments from individuals. Participants attending the meeting can present oral comments, while written statements may be submitted before or after the meeting.

Significant Issues or Concerns

An area of potential concern is ensuring effective public engagement and participation. The notice indicates efforts to accommodate individuals with disabilities, which is crucial for an inclusive process. However, the limited two-minute window for oral public comments might restrict the opportunity for comprehensive input from the public. Additionally, attendees need to be aware of the requirement to submit written comments by February 21, 2025, if they want their input to be officially recorded in the meeting minutes.

Impact on the Public

Broadly speaking, this document reflects the Department of Energy’s commitment to transparency and public involvement in environmental management processes specific to the Portsmouth area. By holding a public meeting, the department provides a platform for community members to voice their concerns and offer suggestions on environmental issues that directly affect their surroundings. This can bolster public trust and ensure that local voices are considered in decision-making processes.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For community members and environmental advocates, this meeting presents an opportunity to engage with government officials and gain insights into the ongoing and future plans for the site. It serves as a forum for stakeholders to advocate for responsible environmental management and address any local concerns. Conversely, stakeholders involved in the clean-up and waste management sectors may view this as a chance to align with federal guidelines and gain clarity on their roles within the broader environmental strategies.

In conclusion, while the document offers a structured avenue for public and stakeholder engagement, its effectiveness will depend on how well it facilitates meaningful interaction and incorporates community feedback into actionable outcomes. The notice underscores the importance of balancing administrative requirements with genuine community involvement to ensure that environmental management initiatives are both effective and inclusive.