FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2009
For More Information Contact:
Debra Huntley
334-462-1252

As a lifelong advocate for the “consumer,” I feel and have always felt that it is the duty of our leaders to balance the benefits of jobs and business with the safety of its citizens. I am concerned that a substance considered toxic in Tennessee can be harmless to transport through Alabama and stored in a landfill in Perry County. The citizens of Alabama have the right to know the real risks involved in accepting the coal ash.

I am calling on EPA and TVA, the two agencies charged with the protection of the environment and health issues with respect to the coal ash, to hold a public meeting to discuss the risks and plans for the ash as well as to hear the concerns of the citizens. In that public meeting, I would hope that we would learn of the real risks involved in accepting the ash and the precautions that are being taken to combat those risks. We need to be assured by TVA/EPA of the safety of the transportation and storage of the ash. We need a public outreach program that maintains lines of communication with the public and provides off set funds to benefit the entire community. And finally, I hope we would see a plan for the future testing of the soil and water surrounding the landfill ensuring we have a partner in the Federal Government through the life of the coal ash.

I understand the need for balance and the potential economic impact for Perry County. In this economy and particularly my long suffering district, I will never stand in the way of job growth. However, it is my belief that we need to have unqualified assurances from the Federal Government that future generations will not pay the price for short term economic development. Furthermore, I want to insure the safety of the citizens along the path of transportation of the coal ash. It is my belief that all effected Alabamians have a right to be educated about these risks, have their concerns heard, and have the assurance of safety for their families.