Signatures sought for letter of response in Grace settlement

The Western News

The federal government has reached a settlement with W. R. Grace for $250 million to reimburse the Environmental Protection Agency for the costs of investigation and cleanup of asbestos contamination in Libby.

The settlement agreement will constitute a final judgment between and among the government and W. R. Grace, however, there is a 30 day public comment period.

If those comments disclose facts or considerations which indicate the settlement is not in the public interest, the U.S. can withdraw its consent to the agreement.

The public comment period runs from March 17, 2008 to April 16, 2008.

Claims by the State of Montana against W. R. Grace are a separate matter and not addressed in this settlement and costs of the mine cleanup are not included in the $250 million and will be addressed separately.

At a March 25 community meeting, individuals reviewed the agreement and said they believe Libby should comment to the justice department during the 30 day period.

A committee is drafting the letter of response. A primary concern is that the $250 million be designated exclusively for the Libby Superfund.

The settlement is to reimburse the Environmental Protection Agency and does not belong to Libby, it is also important to note that Libby seek some assurance that the funds will not be used by the EPA for other superfund sites, even as the EPA experiences changes that may be forthcoming after the upcoming election.

The committee is drafting a letter of concerns that will be sent to the bankruptcy court within the required response time.

Individuals soliciting signatures from the community will be prepared to answer questions regarding the issues.

For additional information about the settlement or to participate in the response effort contact Leroy Thom at 293-9174.