For Release: December 3, 2010
For media inquiries only, contact: Brian J. Gottstein
Email: bgottstein@oag.state.va.us (best contact method)
Phone: 804-786-5874
Attorney General Cuccinelli applauds EPA for stopping alleged polluter in Virginia
- Residential homebuilder settles Clean Water Act violations -
RICHMOND (December 3, 2010) -- Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli today applauded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for protecting the Virginia and the Chesapeake Bay from an alleged polluter through its enforcement of storm water runoff restrictions.
Beazer Homes USA, Inc., a national residential homebuilder, has agreed to pay a $925,000 civil penalty to the federal government to resolve alleged Clean Water Act violations at its construction sites in 21 states, including Virginia, the Justice Department and EPA announced Thursday. It will also improve its oversight of its construction sites around the country.
“Storm water runoff from construction sites can carry pollutants, including sediment, debris, pesticides, paint, used oil, and solvents, which can make their way into our waterways and even our water supply,” said Cuccinelli. “Eight construction sites in Virginia are involved with the settlement, providing a modest fine to be paid to Virginia of $10,193. But more important is the commitment from Beazer to institute tighter controls on storm water runoff at its construction sites.”
The settlement requires Beazer to develop improved pollution prevention plans for each construction site, conduct additional site inspections, and promptly correct any problems detected. The company must properly train construction managers and contractors and designate trained staff for each site. Beazer must also submit annual reports to the EPA.
A portion of the settlement will go to protect the Chesapeake Bay. According to the EPA, the settlement will result in a reduction of approximately 10.4 million pounds of pollutants to the bay watershed.
“When the EPA works within the bounds of its authority to enforce environmental regulations, I join in that effort to protect Virginia’s natural resources and the interests of her citizens. The settlement that the EPA structured with Beazer Homes is tailored to protect the environment without costing people their businesses and the jobs that go with them,” Cuccinelli said.
A copy of this news release may be found on the website of the Attorney General of Virginia at http://www.vaag.com/Media and News Releases/News_Releases/index.html.
# # #