Re: LAND USE: HAUNTING QUESTIONS

[Gill.Michael@epamail.epa.gov]

From: Michael Gill <Gill.Michael@epamail.epa.gov>

In my opinion, Sam Goodhope's and Vernon Brechin's comments bring to light some 
very important points. We (community and regulators) need to be aware of steps 
we are taking now that will impact cleanups later. And, yes, Superfund does 
have some loopholes. But with Superfund still not reauthorized (at least for 
the past two years), I believe it is important to make decisions in a timely 
manner. Do your best now with the existing law. My opinion is that we 
regulators are doing the best we can with what we've got - but we don't mind 
your help. If you feel you can help, let us know! We are also here to get 
these sites cleaned up. Only if we had a crystal ball would we be able to know 
how the reauthorization debate is going to play out. Today's election, both 
Presidential and Congressional, may help answer some of the questions. But 
don't bet on it. There are many forces at play here; political, business and 
scientific. So stay with the process and participate.

Regarding DOE's 10 Year Plan(s): Public comment can make a difference here 
too. If the site already has a signed Record of Decision, remind DOE that this 
is a legally binding document. Any technology or cleanup level changes to that 
ROD can only be done with input from the public and concurrence from the 
regulators. Anyone who has comments on these 10 Year Plans needs to let DOE 
know. It's just like voting: if you don't particpate, you can't complain.

Michael Gill
EPA Region 9
San Francisco