Dear Editor, As a follow-up to coverage in The Times regarding
the work to clean-up perchlorate in South County, I would like to
reiterate the work currently under way by the Santa Clara Valley
Water District and the state Regional Water Quality Control
Board.
Dear Editor,
As a follow-up to coverage in The Times regarding the work to clean-up perchlorate in South County, I would like to reiterate the work currently under way by the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the state Regional Water Quality Control Board.
The regulatory process for groundwater cleanup is typically slow – sometimes taking several years to develop and implement solutions. However, the process the Water District and Regional Board have initiated is anything but typical. Together, we are developing a plan and timeline that will provide relief and resolution to the community much faster than if pursued independently, or if litigation had ensued.
As Roger Briggs of the Regional Board so aptly stated, perchlorate cleanup in South County is the “highest priority in the region” due to the significant impact to residents and farmers in the Morgan Hill and San Martin communities.
In response to the immediacy of this issue, the Regional Board recognized the need to involve the community early and established the Perchlorate Community Advisory Group (PCAG). The PCAG, comprising residents, business representatives and local leaders, has been instrumental in advocating a comprehensive clean-up solution. The Regional Board continues its commitment to South County by ensuring a timely resolution.
It is the hope of the Water District that this collaborative style of resolution continues – one that promptly brings Olin, the community, and regulatory agencies together to develop an action plan and provides the means to pursue its implementation.
Stan Williams, chief executive officer,
Santa Clara Valley Water District
