The DEQ Environmental Assistance Center (EAC) is available to provide direct access to DEQ environmental programs, answers to environmental questions, referrals to DEQ technical staff, and quick response. Questions on any items listed in the DEQ Calendar can be referred to the EAC.

The DEQ Calendar is published every two weeks, on alternate Mondays, by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. We welcome your comments.

If you wish to make additions, deletions or changes to the DEQ Calendar mailing list, please call 517-335-3153 or send your correct name and address to: DEQ Calendar, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 30473, Lansing, MI 48909-7973or E-mail at osbornem@michigan.gov You may also subscribe to receive the Calendar by E-mail using our listserver subscription service at www.deq.state.mi.us/dept/listserv.htm.

The DEQ Calendar is available on the DEQ World Wide Web site in pdf and html format. A text version of the calendar (formerly available on the DEQ FTP site) is also available at www.deq.state.mi.us/pub/cal. The Web site also has Home Page links to all DEQ program information.

No decision listed in the DEQ Calendar will be made prior to seven days after the initial Calendar publication date.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has established dates for the second half of its move to Constitution Hall at 525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing. A public parking lot will open about December 1st, east of and adjacent to Constitution Hall. There is also on-street, metered parking in the vicinity. Uniformed security personnel check the identification of all visitors and employees entering the building.

Constitution Hall Atrium North Tower
Waste Management Division: November 27-28-29

Constitution Hall 6th Floor South Tower
Office of Automation Coordination: December 18-19-20
Office of the Great Lakes: December 18-19-20
Office of Business Services: December 18-19-20
Finance and Business Services Division: December 18-19-20
Office of Criminal Investigations: December 18-19-20
Office of Personnel Services: December 18-19-20
Executive Office: December 20.

Constitution Hall 5th Floor South Tower
Attorney General: January 8-9-10
Michigan Environmental Science Review Board: January 8-9-10
Office of Special Environmental Projects: January 8-9-10
Office of Internal Audit: January 8-9-10
Storage Tank Division: January 8-9-10
Office of Financial Management: January 15-16-17

Constitution Hall 4th Floor South Tower
Auditor General: January 29-30-31
Environmental Response Division: January 29-30-31

Constitution Hall 3rd Floor South Tower
Environmental Response Division: January 29-30-31
Low Level Radioactive Waste Authority: February 5-6-7
Surface Water Quality Division: February 5-6-7

Constitution Hall 2nd Floor South Tower
Surface Water Quality Division: February 5-6-7

Constitution Hall 1st Floor South Tower
Land and Water Management Division: February 12-13-14

Constitution Hall Atrium South Tower
Office of Administrative Hearings: February 12-13-14

AIR QUALITY DIVISION

FORD MOTOR COMPANY, DEARBORN, WAYNE COUNTY, proposed conditional approval of a Permit to Install application for proposed increase in natural gas usage for an automobile paint shop. The facility is located at 3001 Miller Road. Public comment will be taken through December 4, 2001. If requested by December 4, 2001, a public hearing will be held on December 12, 2001 (see December 12 listing in this calendar). Information Contact: Stephen Zervas, Air Quality Division, 517-373-7083. Decision-maker: Richard Johns, Air Quality Division Assistant Chief.

AIR QUALITY DIVISION

AMERICAN MECHANICAL, INC., ROYAL OAK, OAKLAND COUNTY; ATLAS SERVICE COMPANY, INC., SOUTHFIELD, OAKLAND COUNTY; AND FOREST HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER, ANN ARBOR, WASHTENAW COUNTY. Written comments are being accepted on a proposed consent order to administratively resolve alleged air pollution violations. You may obtain copies of the consent order and Staff Activity Report on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/aqd/enforcement/consent.html. Submit written comments by December 3, 2001, to Rick Taszreak, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If requested in writing by December 3, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Rick Taszreak, Air Quality Division, 517-335-4826. Decision-maker: Dennis Drake, Air Quality Division Chief.

AIR QUALITY DIVISION

GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION, GRAND BLANC PLANT, METAL FABRICATING DIVISION, GRAND BLANC, GENESEE COUNTY. Written comments are being accepted on a proposed consent order to administratively resolve alleged air pollution violations. You may obtain copies of the consent order and Staff Activity Report on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/aqd/enforcement/consent.html. Submit written comments by December 19, 2001, to Jeff Studenka, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If requested in writing by December 19, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Jeff Studenka, Air Quality Division, 517-241-7622. Decision-maker: Dennis Drake, Air Quality Division Chief.

AIR QUALITY DIVISION

BFI WASTE SYSTEMS OF NORTH AMERICA, INC., COOPER TOWNSHIP, KALAMAZOO COUNTY. Written comments are being accepted on a proposed consent order to administratively resolve alleged air pollution violations. You may obtain copies of the consent order and Staff Activity Report on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/aqd/enforcement/consent.html. Submit written comments by January 2, 2002, to Tom Andrzejewski, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If requested in writing by January 2, 2002, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Tom Andrzejewski, Air Quality Division, 517-373-0134. Decision-maker: Dennis Drake, Air Quality Division Chief.

LAND AND WATER MANAGEMENT DIVISION

PROPOSED DEED, SAINT CLAIR COUNTY. Proposed deed of 0.40 acres of Lake Saint Clair public trust bottomlands in the Saint Clair Flats. File SC 574. Information Contact: Chris Antieau, Land and Water Management Division, 517-373-3894. Decision-maker: DEQ Director.

AIR QUALITY DIVISION

PART 55, AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1994 PA 451, AS AMENDED. The Air Quality Division will be holding a public hearing on December 3, 2001 (see December 3 listing in this calendar) on proposed revisions to Parts 1 and 9 of the Air Pollution Control Rules (ORR Nos. 2001-040EQ and 2001-059EQ). The addition of R 336.1915 and R 336.1916 will provide companies with a protocol for providing evidence to the DEQ that the emission violations resulted from a malfunction, start-up, or shutdown. The DEQ will use the evidence in the determination of whether to use enforcement discretion. The rules will also provide companies with an affirmative defense against state enforcement actions for excess emissions that arise during certain start-up and shutdown episodes if practices to reduce the emissions are followed. In addition, there are proposed changes to the definitions for "excess emissions" and "malfunctions," R 336.1105 and R 336.1113. The remainder of the proposed revisions to R 336.1102, R 336.1104, R 336.1107, R 336.1108, R 36.1118, R 336.1120 are administrative changes to update the rules in accordance with Executive Orders, make corrections, and update adoptions by reference. The proposed rules can be viewed and downloaded from the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/AQD/rules/Proposed%20Amendments.htm. Copies of the proposed rules may also be obtained by contacting the Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 525 W. Allegan Street, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7760. Written comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on December 3, 2001, and should be mailed to the address above. Information Contact: Jerald Trautman, Air Quality Division, 517-335-4855, or E-mail at trautmaj@michigan.gov. Decision-maker: DEQ Director.

AIR QUALITY DIVISION

PART 55, AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1994 PA 451, AS AMENDED. The Air Quality Division will be holding a public hearing on December 3, 2001 (see December 3 listing in this calendar) on proposed revisions to Part 8 of the Air Pollution Control Rules (ORR No. 2000-056EQ). An amendment to R 336.1801 and the addition of R 336.1802 through R 336.1818, regulations for reducing emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), have been developed in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s requirements for an approved State Implementation Plan for NOx. The proposed rules can be viewed and downloaded from the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/AQD/rules/Proposed%20Amendments.htm. Copies of the proposed rules may also be obtained by contacting the Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 525 W. Allegan Street, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7760. Written comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on December 3, 2001, and should be mailed to the address above. Information Contact: Robert Irvine, Air Quality Division, 517-373-7042, or E-mail at irvinerl@michigan.gov. Decision-maker: DEQ Director.

DECEMBER 3, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING AMERICAN MECHANICAL, INC., ROYAL OAK, OAKLAND COUNTY; ATLAS SERVICE COMPANY, INC., SOUTHFIELD, OAKLAND COUNTY; AND FOREST HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER, ANN ARBOR, WASHTENAW COUNTY. Written comments are being accepted on a proposed consent order to administratively resolve alleged air pollution violations. You may obtain copies of the consent order and Staff Activity Report on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/aqd/enforcement/consent.html. Submit written comments to Rick Taszreak, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If requested in writing by December 3, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Rick Taszreak, Air Quality Division, 517-335-4826.

DECEMBER 3, 2001
10:00 a.m.

PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING PART 55, AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1994 PA 451, AS AMENDED. The Air Quality Division will be holding a public hearing on proposed revisions to Parts 1 and 9 of the Air Pollution Control Rules (ORR Nos. 2001-040EQ and 2001-059EQ). The addition of R 336.1915 and R 336.1916 will provide companies with a protocol for providing evidence to the DEQ that the emission violations resulted from a malfunction, start-up, or shutdown. The DEQ will use the evidence in the determination of whether to use enforcement discretion. The rules will also provide companies with an affirmative defense against state enforcement actions for excess emissions that arise during certain start-up and shutdown episodes if practices to reduce the emissions are followed. In addition, there are proposed changes to the definitions for "excess emissions" and "malfunctions," R 336.1105 and R 336.1113. The remainder of the proposed revisions to R 336.1102, R 336.1104, R 336.1107, R 336.1108, R 36.1118, R 336.1120 are administrative changes to update the rules in accordance with Executive Orders, make corrections, and update adoptions by reference. The proposed rules can be viewed and downloaded from the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/AQD/rules/Proposed%20Amendments.htm. Copies of the proposed rules may also be obtained by contacting the Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 525 W. Allegan Street, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7760. Written comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on December 3, 2001, and should be mailed to the address above. The public hearing will be held in the AQD Conference Room, 3^rd Floor North Tower, Constitution Hall, 525 West Allegan Street, Lansing. Information Contact: Jerald Trautman, Air Quality Division, 517-335-4855, or E-mail at trautmaj@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 3, 2001
1:00 p.m.

PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING PART 55, AIR POLLUTION CONTROL, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1994 PA 451, AS AMENDED. The Air Quality Division will be holding a public hearing on proposed revisions to Part 8 of the Air Pollution Control Rules (ORR No. 2000-056EQ). An amendment to R 336.1801 and the addition of R 336.1802 through R 336.1818, regulations for reducing emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), have been developed in response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s requirements for an approved State Implementation Plan for NOx. The proposed rules can be viewed and downloaded from the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/AQD/rules/Proposed%20Amendments.htm. Copies of the proposed rules may also be obtained by contacting the Air Quality Division, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 525 W. Allegan Street, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7760. Written comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on December 3, 2001, and should be mailed to the address above. The public hearing will be held in the AQD Conference Room, 3^rd Floor North Tower, Constitution Hall, 525 West Allegan Street, Lansing. Information Contact: Robert Irvine, Air Quality Division, 517-373-7042, or E-mail at irvinerl@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 4, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING FORD MOTOR COMPANY, DEARBORN, WAYNE COUNTY, proposed conditional approval of a Permit to Install application for proposed increase in natural gas usage for an automobile paint shop. The facility is located at 3001 Miller Road. If requested by December 4, 2001, a public hearing will be held on December 12, 2001 (see December 12 listing in this calendar). Information Contact: Stephen Zervas, Air Quality Division, 517-373-7083.

DECEMBER 4, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING GREAT LAKES PLASTICS CORPORATION (SRN: N0544), HANCOCK, HOUGHTON COUNTY, for the proposed approval of Renewable Operating Permit #199600039-R1 for the operation of the fiberglass fabricating plant. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the facility. The draft permit is a renewal of the Renewable Operating Permit issued to the company on May 12, 1997. The responsible official of the facility is John J. Laux, General Manager, P.O. Box 600, Hancock, Michigan 49930. Comments on the proposed permit are to be submitted to Thomas Maki, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Marquette District Office, 1990 US-41 South, Marquette, Michigan 49855. If requested in writing by December 4, 2001, a public hearing will be held on December 11, 2001 (see December 11 listing in this calendar). Information Contact: Thomas Maki, Air Quality Division, 906-228-6568.

DECEMBER 4, 2001
1:00 p.m.

MEETING OF THE MINERAL WELL ADVISORY COMMITTEE. This meeting will be held at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Geological Survey Division Conference Room, Constitution Hall, 4^th Floor North Tower, 525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing. Information Contact: Kay Duncan, Geological Survey Division, 517-241-1548.

DECEMBER 5, 2001
9:30 a.m.

AD HOC ADMINISTRATIVE RULES COMMITTEE MEETING FOR PART 625, MINERAL WELLS, NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1994 PA 451, AS AMENDED. The Geological Survey Division has formed an Ad Hoc Committee to participate in the rule development process for Part 625, Mineral Wells, which regulates the mineral well industry. The proposed rules (ORR# 2001-075EQ) will rescind the current rules and implement new regulations that will improve, clarify, expand, and restructure the rules to provide more effective implementation of Part 625. A meeting to discuss Parts 3 and 4 of the proposed rules has been scheduled to be held at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Geological Survey Division Conference Room, Constitution Hall, 4^th Floor North Tower, 525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing. The proposed rules can be viewed on our website at www.deq.state.mi.us/gsd. Information Contact: Susan Maul, Geological Survey Division, 517-241-1552, or E-mail at mauls@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 5, 2001
1:00 p.m.
MEETING CANCELLED

MEETING OF THE OIL AND GAS ADVISORY COMMITTEE HAS BEEN CANCELLED. The next meeting date will be in February 2002, date to be announced. Information Contact: Kay Duncan, Geological Survey Division, 517-241-1548, or E-mail at duncankl@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 5, 2001
7:00 p.m.

PUBLIC HEARING ON PERMIT APPLICATION SUBMITTED BY THE FENTON TOWNSHIP AIRPARK DEVELOPMENT, LINDEN, MICHIGAN. The Land and Water Management Division will hold a public hearing at the Fenton Charter Township Hall, 12060 Mantawauka Drive, Fenton, Michigan. The hearing will be for Permit Application Number 01-25-0085-P, submitted by the Fenton Township Airpark Development, 8529 Pineview Lake Drive, Linden, Michigan. The applicant proposes to place approximately 7,640 cubic yards of fill into and excavate approximately 7,210 cubic yards from 1.07 acres of wetland. Mitigation is proposed at 1.94 acres on the site. The purpose of the proposed project is to update an existing airport facility. The proposed project is located in Fenton Township, Genesee County, Michigan. Information Contact: David Pingel, Land and Water Management Division, 517-625-4694.

DECEMBER 11, 2001
10:00 a.m.

TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING GREAT LAKES PLASTICS CORPORATION (SRN: N0544), HANCOCK, HOUGHTON COUNTY, for the proposed approval of Renewable Operating Permit #199600039-R1 for the operation of the fiberglass fabricating facility. If requested in writing by December 4, 2001, a public hearing will be held at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Marquette District Office, 1990 US-41 South, Marquette. Information Contact: Thomas Maki, Air Quality Division, 906-228-6568.

DECEMBER 12, 2001
7:00 p.m.

TENTATIVELY SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING FORD MOTOR COMPANY, DEARBORN, WAYNE COUNTY, proposed conditional approval of a Permit to Install application for proposed increase in natural gas usage for an automobile paint shop. The facility is located at 3001 Miller Road. If requested by December 4, 2001, a public hearing will be held at the Henry Ford Centennial Library Auditorium, 16301 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn. Information Contact: Stephen Zervas, Air Quality Division, 517-373-7083.

DECEMBER 12, 2001
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

PUBLIC MEETING TO ADDRESS SOIL AND GROUNDWATER INVESTIGATIONS AT THE L.A. DAVIDSON SITE, SAGINAW, SAGINAW COUNTY. Results of soil and groundwater investigations conducted this past summer at the L.A. Davidson site of environmental contamination, 4061 Arthur Street, Saginaw, will be presented by Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) staff. Copies of the investigation report are available for viewing at the Zaul Public Library in Saginaw Township and the DEQ’s Saginaw Bay District Office, 503 N. Euclid, Bay City. The meeting will be held at the Saginaw Township Fire Station #3 located on Center Road north of Gratiot in Saginaw Township. Information Contact: Pisha Williams, Environmental Response Division, 989-686-8025, extension 8310.

DECEMBER 12, 2001
7:00 p.m.

PUBLIC HEARING ON PERMIT APPLICATION SUBMITTED BY THE MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, LANSING, MICHIGAN. The Land and Water Management Division will hold a public hearing at the White Lake Community Library, 3900 White Lake Drive, Whitehall, Michigan. The hearing will be for Permit Application Number 01-61-0064-P, submitted by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Surface Water Quality Division, 300 South Washington Square, Lansing, Michigan. The applicant is proposing remedial activities that would include excavation and off-site disposal of lake bottom sediments contaminated with heavy metals and leather by-products from White Lake. The proposed dredging would include sediment removal in a 720-foot by 360-foot area of the Tannery Bay of White Lake. The dredged volume would be approximately 73,000 cubic yards. The excavated sediments would be dewatered as necessary prior to disposal, using gravity drainage techniques, in order to meet the disposal acceptance requirements of the landfill. The dewatering liquids would be treated on site and the treated water discharged to White Lake under a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. Following the removal of impacted sediments, confirmatory sediment samples would be collected to ensure achievement of cleanup goals. No restoration activities are proposed at this time. The project is located in Whitehall Township, Muskegon County, Michigan. Information Contact: James Fortney, Land and Water Management Division, 616-356-0209.

DECEMBER 13, 2001
9:00 a.m.

CONTESTED CASE HEARING BEFORE THE SUPERVISOR OF WELLS, SPV, L.L.C., BENONA TOWNSHIP, OCEANA COUNTY. Cause No. (A) 15-12-01. Petitioner seeks an order of the Supervisor of Wells forming a full 80-acre Salina-Niagaran drilling unit for the Isley Unit 1-22 well (PN 33154) by compulsory pooling all interests into the unit. The drilling unit consists of the SE 1/4 of SE 1/4, Section 15, and the NE 1/4 of NE 1/4, Section 22, T14N, R18W, Benona Township, Oceana County. The hearing will be held pursuant to Part 615, Supervisor of Wells, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended, at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Geological Survey Division Conference Room, Constitution Hall, 4^th Floor North Tower, 525 W. Allegan Street, Lansing. Information Contact: Susan Maul, Geological Survey Division, 517-241-1552.

DECEMBER 18, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION, WARREN POWERTRAIN (SRN: B1798), WARREN, MACOMB COUNTY, for the proposed approval of a draft initial Renewable Operating Permit for the operation of automotive transmission assembly. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the stationary source. The responsible official of the stationary source Section 1, the Production Process Section, is Kenneth Dosenbach, Plant Manager, 23500 Mound Road, Warren, Michigan 48091. The responsible official of the stationary source Section 2, the Utility Section, is Joseph Bibeau, Director of Utility Service, 31 Judson Street, Pontiac, Michigan 48342 (Mail Code 483-631-260). Comments on the draft permit are to be submitted to Joyce Zhu, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Southeast Michigan District Office, 38980 7 Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. If requested in writing by December 18, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Joyce Zhu, Air Quality Division, 734-432-1281.

DECEMBER 18, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING CITY ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LANDFILL, INC. (SRN: N2952), HASTINGS, BARRY COUNTY, for the proposed approval of a draft initial Renewable Operating Permit for the operation of a municipal solid waste landfill. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the stationary source. The responsible official of the stationary source is Fred Sawyers, Senior Divisional Engineer, 1869 North Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Comments on the draft permit are to be submitted to Dave Morgan, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Grand Rapids District Office, 350 Ottawa NW, Unit 10, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49502. If requested in writing by December 18, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Dave Morgan, Air Quality Division, 616-356-0009, or E-mail at morgand2@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 18, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING OTTAWA COUNTY FARMS LANDFILL (SRN: N3294), COOPERSVILLE, OTTAWA COUNTY, for the proposed approval of a draft initial Renewable Operating Permit for the operation of a solid waste disposal facility. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the stationary source. The responsible officials of the stationary source are Thomas Evenhouse, District Manager, Sunset Waste Services, 250 64^th Avenue, Coopersville, Michigan 49404; and Joel Zylstra, Vice President, Granger Electricity Generating Station, 16980 Wood Road, P.O. Box 27185, Lansing, Michigan 48909. Comments on the draft permit are to be submitted to Dave Morgan, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Grand Rapids District Office, 350 Ottawa NW, Unit 10, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49502. If requested in writing by December 18, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Dave Morgan, Air Quality Division, 616-356-0009, or E-mail at morgand2@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 18, 2001

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC. – AUTUMN HILLS RECYCLING & DISPOSAL FACILITY (SRN: N6006), ZEELAND, OTTAWA COUNTY, for the proposed approval of a draft initial Renewable Operating Permit for the operation of an active municipal solid waste landfill. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the stationary source. The Responsible Official of the stationary source is Randall Dozeman, Division President, 700 56^th Avenue, Zeeland, Michigan 49464. Comments on the draft permit are to be submitted to Dave Morgan, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Grand Rapids District Office, 350 Ottawa NW, Unit 10, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49502. If requested in writing by December 18, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Dave Morgan, Air Quality Division, 616-356-0009, or E-mail at morgand2@michigan.gov. 

DECEMBER 19, 2001

GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION, GRAND BLANC PLANT, METAL FABRICATING DIVISION, GRAND BLANC, GENESEE COUNTY. Written comments are being accepted on a proposed consent order to administratively resolve alleged air pollution violations. You may obtain copies of the consent order and Staff Activity Report on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/aqd/enforcement/consent.html. Submit written comments to Jeff Studenka, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If requested in writing by December 19, 2001, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Jeff Studenka, Air Quality Division, 517-241-7622.

DECEMBER 21, 2001

DRAFT CRAPAUD CREEK E. COLI TOTAL MAXIMUM DAILY LOAD (TMDL). The Surface Water Quality Division (SWQD) is announcing the availability of the Crapaud Creek E. coli TMDL for comment. This water body was included in Michigan’s Year 2000 Section 303(d) list due to elevated E. coli levels. The TMDL is being developed to identify the necessary pathogen reductions to meet Water Quality Standards. Comments on the TMDL may be submitted to Christine Thelen, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Surface Water Quality Division, P.O. Box 30273, Lansing, MI 48909-7773, by December 21, 2001. Copies of the draft TMDL are available through Laura Smith at 517-335-4184 or smithla3@michigan.gov or on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/swq/gleas/gleas.htm. Information Contact: Christine Thelen, Surface Water Quality Division, 517-373-6794, or E-mail at thelencf@michigan.gov. 

JANUARY 2, 2002

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING BFI WASTE SYSTEMS OF NORTH AMERICA, INC., COOPER TOWNSHIP, KALAMAZOO COUNTY. Written comments are being accepted on a proposed consent order to administratively resolve alleged air pollution violations. You may obtain copies of the consent order and Staff Activity Report on the Internet at www.deq.state.mi.us/aqd/enforcement/consent.html. Submit written comments to Tom Andrzejewski, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If requested in writing by January 2, 2002, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Tom Andrzejewski, Air Quality Division, 517-373-0134.

JANUARY 2, 2002

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING STEELCASE INC., GRAND RAPIDS COMPLEX (SRN: N0980), GRAND RAPIDS, KENT COUNTY, for the proposed approval of a draft Renewable Operating Permit for the manufacturing of metal office furniture. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the stationary source. The responsible official of the stationary source is Mark Baker, Senior Vice President of Operations, 1120 - 36^th Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508. Comments on the draft permit are to be submitted to Teresa Kinder, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Grand Rapids District Office, State Office Building, 6^th Floor, 350 Ottawa NW, Unit 10, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503. If requested in writing by January 2, 2002, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Teresa Kinder, Air Quality Division, 616-356-0500.

JANUARY 3, 2002

DEADLINE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING GRUMMAN OLSON (SRN: N0879), STURGIS, ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, for the proposed approval of a draft initial Renewable Operating Permit for the production of delivery trucks. The draft permit is intended to simplify and clarify the facility’s applicable requirements and will not result in any air emission changes at the stationary source. The responsible official of the stationary source is James McConnell, President, 71080 Centerville Road, Sturgis, Michigan 49091. Comments on the draft permit are to be submitted to Kirsten S. Clemens, P.E., Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Air Quality Division, Kalamazoo District Office, 7953 Adobe Road, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009. If requested in writing by January 3, 2002, a public hearing will be scheduled. Information Contact: Kirsten S. Clemens, P.E., Air Quality Division, 616-567-3548.

DECEMBER 2001

LIFE AFTER ROP: RENEWABLE OPERATING PERMIT REPORTING AND MODIFICATIONS. The DEQ’s Environmental Assistance and Air Quality Divisions present a one-day workshop to help Renewable Operating Permit (ROP) holders understand what is required of them after being issued an ROP. Speakers will provide information about certification and deviation reporting, as well as instruction on how to complete the associated reporting forms. Direction will also be given on the requirements associated with making changes and modifications at a facility after a permit has been issued. Attendees will receive a workbook specially designed for this workshop and will have an opportunity to meet one-on-one with Air Quality Division staff to discuss specific questions. Cost: $50, which includes continental breakfast, boxed lunch, and workbook. Register on-line at www.deq.state.mi.us/ead/eosect/workshop.html. Registration Contact: Environmental Assistance Center, 800-662-9278, or E-mail at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov. 

• 12/04/01 - DoubleTree, Novi
• 12/06/01 - Radisson Plaza Hotel, Kalamazoo
• 12/11/01 - Travel Lodge (formerly Van Dyke Conference Center), Warren
• 12/13/01 - Airport Hilton, Grand Rapids

DECEMBER 4, 2001

BETTER SITE DESIGN: CHANGING DEVELOPMENT RULES IN YOUR COMMUNITY, LAKE POINTE MANOR, HOWELL, MICHIGAN. The Watershed Management Committee of the Michigan Water Environment Association (MWEA) and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, among others, are co-sponsoring this one-day seminar on how better site designs can protect our streams, lakes, and wetlands. A handbook published by the Center for Watershed Protection will be used as a textbook and will be provided to every registered attendee. The speakers will examine current practices in Michigan, detail the economic and environmental benefits, and present case studies that demonstrate the principles of better site designs. For more information and a registration form, please contact the MWEA, 517-487-1991, or michwea@netscape.net; or Fred Cowles, Surface Water Quality Division, 517-335-4127.

JANUARY 2002

SARA TITLE III TIER TWO REPORTING WORKSHOP. The DEQ’s Environmental Assistance Division, Michigan State Police, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 are sponsoring this workshop for owners, operators, and environmental and safety personnel of facilities that have hazardous materials. Environmental consultants, LEPCs, and fire fighters can also benefit from the workshop. Presenters will share their expertise and experience to help facilities and local responders prepare for a chemical emergency. The workshop will feature a member of a hazardous materials incident team who will present details of an actual chemical release emergency and evaluate the effectiveness of the emergency response plan for that facility. Attendees are encouraged to bring a calculator. Cost: $50, which includes continental breakfast, lunch, and workshop materials. Register on-line at www.deq.state.mi.us/ead/eosect/workshop.html. Registration Contact: Environmental Assistance Center, 800-662-9278, or E-mail at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov. 

• 1/22/02 - DoubleTree, Novi
• 1/24/02 - Eberhard Center, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2002

"MICHIGAN AIR EMISSIONS REPORTING - INTRODUCTION TO MAERS" WORKSHOP. For the fourth consecutive year, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality offers enhanced Michigan Air Emissions Reporting System (MAERS) software. Facilities subject to reporting of annual air emissions for 2001 will be using the new 2.2 version of the MAERS software, developed by the Air Quality Division. The Introduction to MAERS workshop explains how to use the MAERS software and provides step-by-step instructions on how to complete and submit an air emission report electronically. Workshop attendees will receive the new MAERS workbook and have the opportunity to meet with AQD district staff for one-on-one assistance. Cost: $50, which includes continental breakfast, boxed lunch, and workshop materials. Register on-line at www.deq.state.mi.us/ead/eosect/workshop.html. Registration Contact: Environmental Assistance Center, 800-662-9278, or E-mail at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov. 

• 1/24/02 - Sylvan Treetops Resort, Gaylord
• 1/29/02 - Holiday Inn Express, Belleville
• 1/31/02 - Ramada Inn and Conference Center, Flint
• 2/5/02 - Airport Hilton, Grand Rapids
• 2/7/02 - Travel Lodge (formerly Van Dyke Conference Center), Warren

FEBRUARY 21, 2002

SOIL EROSION CONTROL CONCEPTS 2002: 1^ST ANNUAL WEST MICHIGAN CONFERENCE AND EXPO, CROWNE PLAZA, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN. Information Contact: Barbara Spitzley, Environmental Assistance Division, 517-373-9283, or E-mail at spitzleb@michigan.gov. 

MARCH 13, 2002

"SOIL EROSION CONTROL FOR ROADS: DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE" CONFERENCE AND EXPOSITION, NORTHFIELD HILTON, TROY, MICHIGAN. Information Contact: Barbara Spitzley, Environmental Assistance Division, 517-373-9283, or E-mail at spitzleb@michigan.gov. 

MAY 6-8, 2002

SOCIETY OF MANUFACTURING ENGINEERS’ AUTOMOTIVE FINISHING 2002, NOVI HILTON, NOVI, MICHIGAN. Information Contact: Bernadette Demicoli, Continuing Education and Professional Development Division, SME, 313-271-1500, ext. 2101, or E-mail at demiber@sme.org. 

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE DIVISION

In November 1998, voters approved the Clean Michigan Initiative (CMI). This initiative authorized the sale of $675 million in tax-exempt bonds for various public health, environmental protection, and recreation purposes. In July 1998, the Legislature passed implementing legislation for the CMI, 1998 PA 288, which set forth how the $675 million would be allocated if approved by the voters. This law indicates that $335 million of the $675 million will be used for:

1. Response actions at contaminated properties to promote redevelopment.

2. Response actions at contaminated properties to address public health and environmental problems.

3. Assessment activities to determine if a property is contaminated.

4. Grants and loans to local units of government for environmental response activities at properties with redevelopment potential.

5. Grants to local units of government which owned or operated a municipal solid waste landfill on, or nominated for, the federal Superfund National Priorities List.

Section 19608(7) of the NREPA states that before submitting the first cycle of projects under these categories to the Legislature for funding, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) shall publish and disseminate the criteria it will use in evaluating and recommending these projects for funding. The original criteria were published on March 1, 1999, and again on August 30, 1999. Based on the DEQ’s experience to date, it determined that the criteria could likely be improved. As part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2003 site nomination process, every county, city, village, and township was asked to review the existing criteria and to suggest improvements. Suggestions were also solicited from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and a real estate firm on contract with them. These revised criteria are the result of the input received from this process.

The following criteria are being published to fulfill the previously described statutory requirement. The criteria will be effective on the date published.

· Redevelopment and Job Creation/Investment Potential:
Sites will be evaluated on their likelihood to be redeveloped, including the potential to create jobs, the nature of the jobs likely to be created, and the amount of private investment likely to occur once remediation is complete. Ten primary factors will be used to evaluate these criteria:
1. Property Location – Is the site near a market center, near suppliers, in an area with an adequate work force?
2. Access/Exposure – Is the site visible from or have access to an interchange, highway, or major road?
3. Zoning – Is the zoning classification of the property industrial, commercial, or residential? Industrially zoned property will generally be ranked higher than commercially zoned property because industrial jobs are usually higher paying, and commercially zoned property will generally be ranked higher than residential because residential development usually does not create permanent jobs. Is the municipality willing to change the zoning to make the site more attractive to redevelopment?
4. Size of the Parcel – Larger sites will generally be viewed more favorably than smaller sites because they tend to allow for greater redevelopment flexibility and are capable of accommodating more investment.
5. Utilities – Are all utilities readily available at the site, including water, sewer, natural gas, electric, and fiber optics?
6. Improvements – Will any existing structures remain that will add value and market desirability in the redevelopment process?
7. Other Amenities – Does the site have rail service or a natural characteristic that may create a higher potential for redevelopment; i.e., water frontage?
8. Marketable Title – Could the site be sold to a new user/developer without clouds on the title? Does the site have easements, encroachments, restrictions, or covenants that would interfere with its redevelopment?
9. Adjoining Uses – Are the site’s surrounding uses compatible with the most likely redevelopment? Are surrounding uses compatible from a zoning perspective?
10. Economic Data – Is the site contained within a current renaissance zone or is the municipal tax structure favorable for redevelopment? Is the municipality prepared to offer any incentive to redevelop the site?

· Cost of Response Activity:
The estimated cost to complete the response activities necessary to facilitate redevelopment will be evaluated in relation to the job creation and private investment likely to occur on the site. Sites with favorable cost-benefit ratios will generally be given preference over sites with lower cost-benefit ratios.

· Ability to Implement:
The DEQ’s goal is to generally only request funds for response actions which can be completed within 18 months of receiving an appropriation from the Legislature. Therefore, initially sites owned by the state of Michigan or a local unit of government will be given a higher priority than privately owned sites. Privately owned sites often have access and liability issues that must be resolved before work can commence. Once these issues have been thoroughly evaluated and resolved, a privately owned site will receive the same consideration as a publicly owned site.

· Geographic Distribution of Projects:
The DEQ will strive to assure all areas of the state benefit from the program. Cost-benefit and redevelopment potential, however, will be the controlling factors in site selection. Sites will not be selected or funds allocated exclusively on the basis of population density or geographic distribution.

· Community Priority:
Many communities have recommended sites to the DEQ for CMI funding to conduct response actions necessary to facilitate redevelopment. Significant consideration will be given to the sites recommended by communities, and if multiple sites were recommended, to the priority assigned by the community.

The nature and extent of the human health problem, the nature and extent of the environmental problem, and response cost vs. expected benefit will be evaluated. Response actions and funding priorities will be based on the degree of risk reduction that can be accomplished by a project. Projects that provide greater risk reduction per dollar expended will have higher priority. All unacceptable contamination-related exposures at a site will not necessarily be remediated. The goals of this programmatic element will be: (1) accomplish the greatest amount of public health and environmental benefit with each dollar expended; and (2) assure if response actions are terminated at a site short of completing a comprehensive remedy, the environmental and public health benefits derived from the response actions taken will not be lost.

Sites with extremely high response activity costs may be nominated to the federal Superfund program for action to optimize the benefit of available state resources.

Three types of assessments will be recommended for funding. The first is an assessment where the presence of a release would pose a serious threat to public health (i.e., a suspected release on property in a municipal wellhead protection area). The second is an evaluation of a suspected release which could impact an important, sensitive natural resource (i.e., a suspected toxicant release in close proximity to a high-quality trout stream). The third is an assessment to facilitate a significant redevelopment project.

Grants for response actions at contaminated properties with redevelopment potential will be evaluated and issued using the same criteria currently being used for site reclamation and site assessment grants under the 1988 Environmental Bond program with the addition that demolition of a dangerous or functionally obsolete structure that impedes redevelopment may be considered an eligible activity.

The CMI funds for this purpose will be allocated using the criteria established under Section 20109a of the NREPA and policies adopted by the Brownfield Redevelopment Board.