Soil Coverup Shows Dep's Lack of Power, Critics Say

Summary

---

The state Department of Environmental Protection wields little power to punish those responsible for contamination at Paramus' West Brook Middle School or for the coverup that followed its discovery, according to critics of the agency.

The DEP has not yet determined the origin of the pesticides at West Brook. And even if it reaches a conclusion on how the soil became tainted or who bears responsibility, critics say it does not have the legal power to levy any substantial punishment.

See the full content of this document

Extract

---

Soil Coverup Shows Dep's Lack of Power, Critics Say

State and local officials are trying to address that in current accountability regulations.

Since news of the contamination became public in May, the DEP has maintained that the school district was not required to notify it when toxic soil was discovered. It also did not require contractors hired by the school district to obtain state permits when they starte...

See the full content of this document

---