City States Case Against ASARCO
EL PASO, TX. -Nearly a week in to the ASARCO Air Permit Hearing, the City of El Paso begins making its case against the smelter.
Day 5 began with a motion to dismiss the entire ASARCO hearing. Attorney Taylor Moore, whorepresents three women from New Mexico wanted the two state judges to deny ASARCO permit application.
Mr. Moore’s reason:because the company never considered the impact its emissions have on New Mexico. The judges denied his motion, explaining that they are here to investigate issues pertaining to air pollution and compliance history.
David Cabe, ASARCO’s air modeling expert, finished testifying Friday. He testified about how the company determined the impact its air emissions on the City of El Paso, in relationship to its state permit application.
The two State Judges again heard from former Plant Manager Larry Castor for the El Paso facility. Mr. Castor acknowledged that some chemicals were emitted at levels 5-to-10 times greater than initally permitted.
Howevery theTCEQ responded by amending the compamy’s permit to allow for higher emission levels. In light of the busy week, highlighted by a tour of the facility, both sidestell ABC-7 thatthey are pleased with this week’s developments in the hearing:
Thehearing is scheduled to run through next week.After the judges make their recommendations, threeTCEQ Commissioners will rule on the permit.
