Kenna M. DeRaimo

The Commission conducted an evidentiary hearing regarding Appeal Nos. 94-02-P and 94-03-P involving Joy Allison and Richard Chambers versus the Chief of the Office of Air Quality, Division of Environmental Protection. Following the hearing, the Commission held a dinner meeting to discuss general business and administrative matters.

The board addressed budgetary concerns regarding state-mandated budget cuts and the potential impact on statutory responsibilities, including the ability to conduct appeals. Audit updates were provided regarding purchasing card reviews and fiscal post-audits, alongside administrative updates concerning computer equipment and personnel introductions. The board also managed several pending appeals, including resolutions for B.F. Goodrich and TSF Limited, continuances for Elkem Metals and Coronado, and a dismissal directive for Marietta Industrial Enterprises pending submission of a settlement agreement. Board members collectively declined per diem compensation for the session.

The commission conducted a final review and consideration of several proposed regulations, including the Operating Permit Program, permits for construction or modification of stationary sources, emission standards for hazardous pollutants, and standards for performance for new stationary sources. Discussions covered fee provisions, revenue requirements, and adjustments for the operating permit program. The commission also deliberated on regulatory relief requests concerning emissions of sulfur oxides and manufacturing process particulate emissions. Additionally, proposed regulations for pollutants from hazardous waste treatment facilities were reviewed, with revisions and modifications suggested and approved.

The Commission focused on several key items, including the approval of proposed changes to Regulation 22 regarding the Air Quality Management Fee Program. Discussions were held regarding legal counsel services, resulting in the rescission of a previous contract and the election of new legal counsel. The Commission also reviewed proposed legislation for the reorganization of the Department of Environmental Protection, addressed an EPA notice of non-compliance regarding stage II recovery regulations, and approved suggested language changes from the Legislative Rulemaking Committee. Additionally, a presentation was provided on Office of Air Quality activities related to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990.

The Board meeting focused on regulatory and legal proceedings. Key actions included the adoption of an Agreed Order regarding the Georgia-Pacific Corporation. Additionally, the Board conducted a hearing on the Apple Grove permit appeals, ultimately denying the motion to vacate the permit while voting unanimously to grant an appellant's motion to sequester one of the permit writers.