On August 7, the City of Port Angeles submitted official public comment on the Washington State Department of Ecology’s proposed final actions for the cleanup of the Rayonier Mill Site. Community members are highly encouraged to submit their own comments to Ecology by the August 12 deadline.
Through the unanimous support of City Council, the City is advocating for Cleanup Alternative Five (SL-5), which supports a complete and permanent cleanup of the Rayonier Mill Site.
“As a City, we have consequential concerns about the soil remedy (SL-3) being proposed by Rayonier and the Department of Ecology,” says City Manager Nathan A. West.
The remedy being proposed, referred to as SL-3, would leave contaminated soils and sediments consolidated in a 10-acre, seven-foot-tall mound on the site, requiring ongoing monitoring and maintenance and resulting in an incomplete and less than permanent solution. Because SL-3 does not include a complete removal of contaminants, this method fails to meet cleanup standards that protect human health and the environment, both for current and potential future uses. This would significantly reduce the amount of space available for future mixed-use opportunities on the site.
The City’s submission includes a Summary of Technical and Legal Flaws regarding Ecology’s Interim Action, as well as an Interim Action Plan Soil Remedy Evaluation memorandum provided by the City’s consultant, Integral Consulting. This document highlights the cost estimates and disproportionate cost analysis by Ecology, having inflated the favorability of SL-3 over SL-5, while simultaneously deflating the reality of cost associated with SL-3.
How To Submit Public Comment
For residents of Port Angeles and surround communities, this cleanup is critical to protecting local waterways, improving public health and safety, and supporting future economic growth. Your feedback is an important part of this process.
“Our community has waited 28 years to see the cleanup of this property. After so much time, it is unacceptable for our residents to be burdened with a less than permanent result - one that would leave contamination and impact future generations,” adds City Manager West. “Port Angeles is our home, and we will live with the long-term consequences of the decisions made regarding this cleanup. ”
Community members are encouraged to submit their own public comments to the Department of Ecology before the August 12 deadline. After reviewing the project documents, you can submit your comments:
- Online
- By email to Marian Abbett, site manager
- Or by mail to the WA Department of Ecology, PO Box 47775, Olympia, WA 98504
View the City of Port Angeles Comment Submittal
Watch the City-Hosted Community Forum on the Rayonier Mill Cleanup
Comments Posted to DOE To Date