ASARCO And Community Awaits Word On Air Permit

EL PASO, TX. – ASARCO may a step closer to starting smelting operations again and residents may know as soon as Thursday.

According to the State Office of Administrative Hearings, a Judge is expected to submit his recommendation on whether the smelter should have its air quality permit renewed. Hearings regarding the future of the plant were held back in July.

At that time, opponents of the new permit argued that the century-old plant emitted a mixture of toxic chemicals and caused various health problemsfor residents around the smelter.However, attorneys for ASARCO argued there is no evidence the plant will cause or contribute to a condition of more air pollution in El Paso.

After the Office of Administrative Hearings makes a decision on the smelter’s permit, the Texas Commission on Environmental quality will have the final say on ASARCO’s operations.