A looming concern has gripped the community, emanating from the ominous presence of the Slag Pile. This towering mass of industrial residue has become more than just a local landmark; it’s a focal point of health-related apprehension among residents.
As discussions about its implications intensify, the issue has reached the desks of authorities, sparking regulatory actions and public health initiatives. At the forefront of this dialogue are the efforts of agencies like the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), whose ongoing investigations and monitoring endeavors underscore the gravity of the situation.
As the community grapples with the potential health risks posed by the Slag Pile, a letter penned to Supervisor Michaels sheds light on the latest developments and the urgent need for action.
Hello supervisor Michaels,
Late last week I asked Jeremy to reach out to his contact at ADEQ to get a status on their regulatory activities related to the Cottonwood Slag Pile. Their response is immediately below:
ADEQ’s Air Quality Division is continuing to review the Individual Permit application submitted by MRI in October. Once the review is complete, a Public Notice containing the draft permit and public comment information will be published. Although the Consent Order was terminated, MRI may continue to operate under the pending Individual Permit application. ADEQ is continuing to conduct required onsite inspections to ensure the facility’s operations maintain compliance.
ADEQ is also continuing with the air monitoring efforts for PM and heavy metals outside of the fence line of the facility (monitors located at the VFW and park). This will continue until we have enough quality data to submit to ADHS for their health consultation.
We are also continuing to obtain access to nearby properties for soil and groundwater sampling for the PI. If you know of any community members interested in having their soil or wells sampled, please direct them to the PM Dr. Hazel Cox (cox.hazel@azdeq.gov 520-770-3125).
It appears that both ADEQ and ADHS are actively involved with monitoring of MRI, and ADEQ is gathering data that may result in denial of their permit request and/or the imposition of additional regulations.
Please let me know if you would like to discuss this matter when you have time next week.
Thank you.
Martin J. Brennan
Assistant County Manager
Yavapai County
1015 Fair Street
Prescott, AZ 86305
(928) 771-3200
