Laserfiche WebLink
3. How can TACO help property owners? <br /> Previously, the IEPA used conservative "one-size-fits-all" remediation objectives at <br /> nearly every site. Baseline remediation objectives still exist, but other practical options <br /> also protective of human health have been added. TACO agreements provide flexibility <br /> to site owners and operators in developing site-specific remediation objectives. It's now <br /> the site owners and operators who decide how best to manage their sites within TACO <br /> guidelines. However, this determination of site-specific remediation objectives is subject <br /> to IEPA approval and also the approval of the owners of any affected properties. <br /> 4. What is the City's Obligation under a Ground Water Ordinance? <br /> In order to protect public health, the City must prohibit new drinking water wells from <br /> tapping into groundwater within an area determined by the IEPA following an in depth <br /> ground water review by an engineer. Normally the IEPA's rules do not require existing <br /> wells to be closed unless they have become contaminated. Since the City has a public <br /> water supply, this prohibition is not usually a hardship. <br /> 5. What benefit does the City of Decatur gain by enacting a Ground Water <br /> Ordinance? <br /> 1. Public health is protected by prohibiting the use of ground water from <br /> contaminated sites. <br /> 2. Redevelopment of"brownfield" sites is facilitated,thereby returning them to <br /> productive use. <br /> 3. By exercising choices provided by TACO rules, site owners and operators may <br /> reduce remediation costs, return more sites to productive use, hasten property <br /> redevelopment, and still fully comply with environmental laws and regulations. <br /> 6. Can the City establish rules more strict than those imposed by the IEPA? <br /> The City is generally able to establish rules that are equal to or greater than those <br /> established by the IEPA. The legality of additional rules will likely vary depending on <br /> the desired measure and should in each circumstance be addressed by the Corporation <br /> Counsel. The Ground Water Ordinance used by the City is a"typical" document <br /> required by the IEPA. The City is able to add conditions and requirements through <br /> separate agreements such as removal of some or all contaminated soil, the payment of <br /> fees, liability indemnification, etc. <br /> Appendix A, Page 2 <br />