Petitioner: ALEXANDRIA LARSON
Respondent: FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY AND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Judges: ROBERT E. MEALE
Agency: Department of Environmental Protection
Locations: West Palm Beach, Florida
Filed: Nov. 02, 2007
Status: Closed
Recommended Order on Monday, March 3, 2008.
Latest Update: Oct. 06, 2008
Summary: The issue is whether Respondent Florida Power & Light Company is entitled to Permit No. 247895-007-UC for the conversion of an exploratory well to an injection well, the construction of a second injection well, and the operational testing of both wells, which are intended to inject industrial wastewater from a power plant into the Boulder Zone of the Upper Floridan Aquifer.Petitioners failed to prove standing to challenge the permit for deep well injection of industrial waste, but DEP should rev
Summary: The issue is whether Respondent Florida Power & Light Company is entitled to Permit No. 247895-007-UC for the conversion of an exploratory well to an injection well, the construction of a second injection well, and the operational testing of both wells, which are intended to inject industrial wastewater from a power plant into the Boulder Zone of the Upper Floridan Aquifer.Petitioners failed to prove standing to challenge the permit for deep well injection of industrial waste, but DEP should revise the permit to state the maximum pumping rate and procedure for handling and documenting the handling of hazardous waste.
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STATE OF FLORIDA bE,
. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
* 2009-AP2 1 g
Ait Sb
PALM BEACH COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL
COALITION, PETER TSOLKAS,
ALEXANDRIA LARSON, and MICHAEL
CHRISTENSEN,
)
)
)
)
)
Petitioners, )
) OGC CASE NOS. 07-1810
vs, ) 07-1899
) 07-1752
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
DOAH CASE NOS. 07-5047
07-5062
FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY 07-5063
and DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION,
Respondents.
ey
FINAL ORDER
On March 3, 2008, an Administrative Law Judge (“ALJ”) with the Division of
Administrative Hearings ("DOAH") submitted his Recommended Order ("RO") to the
Department of Environmental Protection (‘Department’) in these consolidated cases.
The RO indicates that copies were served to counsel for the Petitioners, Palm Beach
County Environmental Coalition (“Coalition”) and Peter Tsolkas (Tsolkas”). Copies
were also served to Petitioners, Alexandria Larson ("Larson") and Michael Christensen
(“Christensen”). Copies of the RO were served to counsel for the Co-Respondents,
Florida Power & Light Company (“FPL”) and the Department. A copy of the RO is
attached hereto as Exhibit A. On March 18, 2008, Co-Respondents, FPL and the
Department filed Exceptions to the RO. The Petitioners did not file any Exceptions, nor
did the Petitioners respond to the Exceptions of the Co-Respondents. The matter is
now before me for final agency action.
BACKGROUND
FPL is Florida's largest electric utility. It provides service to over 4.4 million
customer accounts in 35 counties. By Final Order. Approving Certification dated
December 26, 2006, the Siting Board granted full and final certification to FPL for the
location, construction, and operation of the West County Energy Center (WCEC)
project, Units 1 and 2, to an immediate capacity of 2500 megawatts and to an ultimate
capacity of 3300 megawatts. Units 1 and 2 at the WCEC will be combined cycle power
plants. The certification issued by the Siting Board authorizes Applicant to power the
plant by natural gas or ultra-low sulfur light fuel oil. The certification describes, but does
not itself authorize, an onsite wastewater disposal process using a deep well injection
system consisting of two 3200-feet deep injection wells and a dual zone monitoring well.
The WCEC Units 1 and 2 would be the first power units operated by FPL to use
deep well injection for the disposal of wastewater associated with the production of
power. Other plants operated by FPL use cooling ponds, such asa 6000-acre cooling
pond at its power plant in Martin County. The WCEC sits on only 220 acres, so FPL
could not have constructed a sufficiently large onsite pond to accept the wastewater
from the operation of Units 1 and 2.
The WCEC is in west Palm Beach County, 20 miles due west from the Atlantic
Ocean and 25 miles southeast of Lake Okeechobee. Draining Lake Okeechobee, the
L-10/L-12 canal passes immediately adjacent to the WCEC site on the south side of
State Road 80, which runs along the southern border of the WCEC site. Immediately
across State Road 80 from the WCEC site, about 1000 feet to the south, is the Arthur R.
Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (“National Wildlife Refuge"). The WCEC
abuts a quarry operated by Palm Beach Aggregates (“PBA Quarry"). Already located
adjacent to the WCEC is FPL’s Corbett transmission substation and high-voltage
transmission lines.
On April 25, 2007, FPL applied to the Department for the conversion and
operational testing of existing Exploratory Well 2 (“EW-2”) into Injection Well 4 (“IW-1 "\,
construction and operational testing of new Injection Well 2 (“IW-2"), and incorporation
of the separately permitted Dual Zone Monitoring Well ("DZMW-1”) into an injection well
system for the disposal of industrial wastewater at the WCEC. On September 13, 2007,
the Department noticed its intent to issue Permit No. 247895-007-UC (“Permit”).
On October 25, 2007, the Coalition and Tsolkas filed an Amended Petition to
rescind the proposed issuance of “the permit" to construct and operationally test W-1,
IW-2, and DZMW-1, although the only relief that they sought was directed to the permit
for |W-1 and IW-2. The Amended Petition was assigned DOAH Case No. 07-5047,
On October 29, 2007, Petitioner Larson filed an Amended Petition to rescind “the
permit’ for IW-1, |W-2, and DZMW-1. The Amended Petition was assigned DOAH Case
No. 07-5062. On October 16, 2007, Petitioner Christensen filed an Aménded Petition to
rescind "the permit” for |W-1, IW-2, and DZMW-1. The Amended Petition was assigned
DOAH Case No. 07-5063.
By Order Consolidating-Cases entered November 7, 2007, these three cases
were consolidated with DOAH Case Nos. 07-3881 and 07-4744, which had been
commenced by Southern States Land and Timber, LLC. ‘However, after a voluntary
dismissal filed by the petitioner in each of these cases, DOAH Case Nos. 07-3881 and
07-4744 were dismissed by Order Closing Files entered November 21, 2007. In this
Order, the Administrative Law Judge relinquished jurisdiction over the proposed permit
for the DZMW-1, and DEP has since issued the permit for the construction and
operational testing of DZMW-1. The above-styled cases therefore involve only the
Permit, which pertains exclusively to the construction and operational testing of |W-1 .
and IW-2.
On December 21, 2007, FPL filed a Motion to Strike and Motion in Limine
directed to four allegations in the petitions: cumulative “affects,” global warming, risk
analysis, and air pollution. By Order entered January 15, 2008, the ALJ granted the
motion. At the hearing counsel for Petitioners, Coalition and Tsolkas stated that he had
not received notice of FPL’s motion. The ALJ allowed the parties a rehearing on the
Mation to Strike and Motion in Limine. After extensive argument on ail four issues, the
ALJ again granted FPL's Motion to Strike and Motion in Limine.
On January 15, 2008, the parties filed a Pre-Hearing Stipulation and, on January
18, 2008, they filed an Amended Pre-Hearing Stipulation (“Stipulation”). The Stipulation
states that these cases involved challenges to the proposed permit for |W-1 and IW-2.
The ALJ conducted the administrative hearing on January 22-25, 2008, in West Palm
Beach. The parties filed their proposed recommended orders by February 12, 2008.
The ALJ subsequently entered his RO on March 3, 2008.
THE RECOMMENDED ORDER
' The ALJ stated that the issue for hearing was whether FPL tig entitled to Permit
No. 247895-007-UC for the conversion of an exploratory well to an injection well, the
construction of a second injection well, and the operational testing of both wells, which
are intended to inject industrial wastewater from a power plant into the Boulder Zone of
the Upper Floridan Aquifer.” (RO p. 2). In concluding that FPL had provided reasonable
assurance for issuance of the Permit, the ALJ identified “two minor exceptions," and
suggested that the Department “may easily revise the Permit to address these two
flaws.” (RO pp. 68-69, 145). However, since the ALJ had concluded that none of the
Petitioners proved their standing to maintain the administrative proceeding, he
acknowledged that the Department may enter a final order issuing the Permit without
the recommended revisions. (RO pp. 54-58, 72, 197113-119 and Recommendation).
The ALJ found that the Petitioner Coalition is a member-based , unincorporated
association that, among other things, coordinates public education and outreach
regarding environmental threats and environmental protection. (RO p. 10, 7). The
Coalition and its members participate in recreational activities involving regional natural
resources, such as the National Wildlife Refuge. (RO pp. 10-11, {[f[7-9). Petitioner |
Tsolkas is the chairperson of the Coalition and also participates in member activities.
(RO p. 11, 10). The ALJ found that Petitioner Christensen resides approximately 3
miles from the WCEC site and that he has hiked and observed wildlife. in the National
Wildlife Refuge. (RO p. 12, 912). The ALJ then concluded that these Petitioners’ claims
of standing based on alleged impacts to the National Wildlife Refuge from 3000-foot
. deep injection well system failed the first prong of the Agrico’ standing test. (RO p. 55,
7114). In other words; these Petitioners did not show that they have suffered an injury
in fact of sufficient immediacy to entitle them to the administrative hearing. (RO p. 54,
4113).
The ALJ further found that Petitioner Larson lives about 2.5 miles east of the
WCEC site on a 1.63-acre lot.- Larson relies for her potable water on a well drilled about
125 feet into the surficial aquifer. (RO p. 12, 911). The ALJ concluded that Larson did
not prove standing because the claimed impact on her well from.a 3000-foot deep
injection well system also failed the first prong of the two-pronged standing test. (RO p.
56, 11115-1146). The ALJ determined that “the small amount of additional pressure, the
vastness of the Boulder Zone, the thickness of the Middle Floridan Confining Unit, the
lack of another well into the Boulder Zone that might require corrective action within
miles of the WCEC, and the presence of another confining unit between the Middle
Floridan and Petitioner Larson's well preclude the possibility that Petitioner Larson has
proved any injury in fact.” (RO p. 56-57, 9116).
However, the ALJ acknowledged that “subsequent review may determine that
one or more petitioners have standing.” (RO p. 58, 119). Therefore, the RO contains
* Agrico Chemical Co. v. Dept. of Environmental Regulation, 406 So.2d 478. 482 (Fla.
2d DCA 1981) (holding that for standing, challengers must show that (1) they have
suffered an injury in fact of sufficient immediacy to entitle them to a Section 120.57(1)
hearing, and (2) their substantial injury is ofa type or nature that the proceeding was
designed to protect). : .
findings of fact and conclusions of law on all-issues that were addressed in the full
evidentiary hearing. This approach “would serve administrative efficiency and likely
render any erroneous standing determinations harmless error.” (RO p. 58, 119).
The ALJ’s recommended permit revisions were based on two issues that he
characterized as minor deficiencies. (RO p. 48, $100; p. 54, 9111). The two issues
identified by the ALJ were the rate of injection and the identification of hazardous waste.
(RO p. 48, 9100; p. 51, 106). The ALJ concluded that the Permit did not explicitly set
the maximum rate of injection for the injection well system or the two injection wells
individually. Thus, it was not clear whether the maximum injection rate of 10 feet per
second ("ft/sec") during normal aperation (12 fl/sec during emergencies) applied to each
well resulting in a combined maximum of 20 ft/sec (24 ft/sec during emergencies). (RO
p. 47-48, 1198-99). In addition, the ALJ interpreted the applicable rule provision that
_allows an increased raté of 12 ft/sec for planned testing, maintenance, or emergency
conditions, in a manner that would allow FPL to pump at the rate of 12 ft/sec only during
an emergency. (RO p. 48, J{J99-100).
“Fhe Att stated that the other minor deficiency involved-how FPL “isto-determine————_
that the wastewater disposed into the injection wells is free of hazardous waste. (RO p.
48, 7101). The ALJ found that the Permit addressed hazardous wastes by stating that
the “injectate shall be non-hazardous in nature at all times.” (RO p. 50, 71 04). The ALJ
concluded that FPL could use actual testing or “process knowledge” to determine if a
substance is hazardous. However, the ALJ concluded that using “process knowledge”
is not within the part of the Code of Federal Regulations that the Department has
incorporated into a rule. (RO p. 70, 9151). The ALJ acknowledged that if “process
knowledge” was incorporated in a Department rule then FPL could simply rely on it. (RO
p. 71, 9152). The ALJ further concluded that FPL can provide reasonable assurance as
to hazardous waste using the procedures he described in the RO. The ALJ found that
) FPL should prepare, implement, and document a plan for periodically obtaining reliable
data and conducting valid analysis, or obtaining such data and analysis from other
parties such as reliable vendors or governmental agencies, to determine whether a
discrete wastestream is a hazardous waste. (RO p. 51, qi06-1 07).
STANDARDS OF REVIEW
Section 120.57(1)(I), Florida Statutes, provides that an agency reviewing a
DOAH recommended order may not reject or modify the findings of fact of an ALJ,
“unless the agency first determines from a review of the entire record, and states with
particularity in the order, that the findings of fact were not based on competent
substantial evidence or that the proceedings on which the findings were based did not |
comply with essential requirements of law.” § 120.57(1)(I), Fla. Stat. (2007); Wills v.
Florida Elections Commission, 955 So.2d 67 (Fla. 1 DCA 2007); Heifetz v. Dept. of
Business Regulation, 475 So.2d 1277 (Fla. 1 DCA 1985) (holding that agency may not
reject an ALJ's findings of fact, which are supported by competent, substantial
evidence, nor is it authorized to reweigh the evidence, resolve conflicts in testimony,
draw inferences, judge credibility of witnesses, or otherwise interpret the evidence).
Florida law defines “competent substantial evidence” as “such evidence as is
sufficiently relevant and material that a reasonable mind would accept it as adequate to
support the conclusion reached.” DeGroot v. Sheffield, 95 So.2d 912, 916 (Fla. 1975);
Gulf Coast Elec. Co-op v. Johnson, 727 So.2d 259, 262 (Fla. 1999). Furthermore, an
agency may not create or add to findings of fact because an agency is not the trier of
fact. Friends of Children v. Dept. of Health and Rehabilitative Services, 504 So.2d 1345
(Fla. 1 DCA 1987). The decision to accept one expert's testimony over that of another
is left to the discretion of the administrative law judge and cannot be altered absent a
complete lack of competent, substantial evidence from which the finding could
reasonably be inferred. Florida Chapter of Sierra Club v. Orlando Utility Commission,
436 So.2d 383, 389 (Fla. 5" DCA 1983). Furthermore, “[rlejection or modification of
conclusions of law may not form the basis for rejection or modification of findings of
fact.” § 120.57(4)(I), Fla.-Stat. (2007).
With respect to the standard of review regarding an ALJ's conclusions of law,
Section 120.57(1)(1), Florida Statutes, provides that an agency may reject or modify an
ALJ's conclusions of law and interpretations of administrative rules “over which it has
substantive jurisdiction” whenever the agency's interpretation is "as or more reasonable”
than the interpretation made by the ALJ. See Deep Lagoon Boat Club Lid. v. Sheridan,
784 So.2d 1140 (Fla. 2d DCA 2001), Florida Courts have consistently applied this
- section's “substantive jurisdiction limitation” to prohibit an agency from reviewing
conclusions of law that are based upon the ALJ's application of legal concepts such as
collateral estoppel, res judicata, and hearsay, but not from reviewing conclusions of law
that are based upon the ALJ's application of an agency's administrative rules or
procedures. Id. .
An agency has the primary responsibility of interpreting statutes and rules within
its regulatory jurisdiction and expertise. See, e.g., Public Employees Relations
Commission v. Dade County Police Benevolent Association, 467 So.2d 987, 989 (Fla.
1985); Florida Public Employee Council, 79 v. Daniels, 646 So.2d 813, 816 (Fla. 1st
DCA 1994). Considerable deference should be accorded to these agency
interpretations of statutes and rules within their regulatory jurisdiction, and such agency
interpretations should not be overturned unless “clearly erroneous.” See, e.g., Falk v.
Beard, 614 So.2d 1086, 1089 (Fla. 1993); Dept. of Environmental Regulation v.
Goldring, 477 So.2d 532, 534 (Fla. 1985). Furthermore, agency interpretations of
statutes and rules within their regulatory jurisdiction do not have to be the only
reasonable interpretations. It is enough if such agency interpretations are “permissible”
ones. - See, €.9. Suddath Van Lines, Inc. v. Dept. of Environmental Protection, 668
So.2d 209, 212 (Fla. 1st DCA 1996).
RULINGS ON EXCEPTIONS |
The case law of Florida holds that parties to formal administrative proceedings .
—— must alert reviewing agencies to-any perceived defects in DOAH hearing procedures or
in the findings of fact of ALJs by filing exceptions to DOAH recommended orders. See
Couch v. Commission on Ethics, 617 So.2d 1119, 1124 (Fla. 5th DCA 1993); Florida
Dept. of Corrections v. Bradley, 510 So.2d 1122, 1124 (Fla. ist DCA 1987). Having «.
filed no exceptions to certain findings of fact the party “has thereby expressed its
agreement with, or at least waived any objection to, those findings of fact.”
Environmental Coalition of Florida, inc. v. Broward County, 586 So.2d 1212, 1213 (Fla.
10
4* DCA 1991). The ALJ's RO-found that the Petitioners did not prove their standing to
maintain this proceeding. The Petitioners did not file any Exceptions to the RO.
Therefore, those findings are uncontested. Having considered the applicable law, the
ALJ’s findings and conclusions regarding the Petitioners’ lack of standing are adopted in
this Final Order. However, subsequent judicial review may determine that one or more
of the Petitioners had standing. Therefore, for appellate purposes, | will rule on the
Exceptions filed by the Co-Respondents.
RULINGS ON CO-RESPONDENTS’ EXCEPTIONS
a) Rate of Injection ) .
Respondent FPL takes exception to the ALJ's finding of fact paragraph 100
contending first that the paragraph is really a conclusion of law. Second, FPL argues
that the ALJ recommended revising permit Specific condition 5.b.4 to clarify that the
maximum rate of pumping is 10 ft/sec (12 ft/sec in an emergency) whether one or both
injections wells are pumping at any given time; and the unavailability of one of the wells
(such as outage for routine service) is not an emergency that would allow pumping at
— the rate of 12 fi/sec.FPE suggests that the basis for the Atd's recommendation is that————
the ALJ interpreted Specific condition 5.b.4 of the Permit as implying that an emergency
arises when one of FPL's two injections wells requires service and FPL “can no longer
obtain a combined rate of 20 feet per second out of both wells, so it may then at least
obtain 12 feet per second out of the well that remains.” (RO 798). FPL contends that
the ALJ has incorrecily interpreted the applicable Department rule in Fla. Admin. Code
R. 62-528.415(1)(f}, which provides:
11
(f) Injection Fluid Velocity.
4. The maximum velocity of injected fluid shall not exceed
the point where the mechanical limits of the well design or
structure of the formation will be adversely affected.
2. Except as provided in 3. below, the maximum injection
velocity of a well that begins operation after June 1, 1985, shall
not exceed a peak hourly flow of ten feet per second (ft/sec),
unless the applicant demonsirates that higher velocities will not
compromise the integrity or operation of the well.
3. An injection system may be designed to allow an injection
velocity not to exceed a peak hourly flow of 12 ft/sec during
planned testing, maintenance, or emergency conditions when
one or more wells are taken out of service if the permittee
provides the Department with reasonable assurance ihat the
higher velocities will not compromise the integrity or operation of
the well(s).
Contrary to FPL’s argument the ALJ in paragraph 100 of the RO did not
specifically recommend revising Specific condition 5.b.4. The ALJ simply
recommended “adding language to the Permit.” (RO p. 48, 9100). The ALJ's
recommendation followed from his finding in paragraph 98 that “the Permit nowhere
explicitly sets the maximum rate for the injection well system or the two injections wells
individually.” (RO p. 47, 9198). A review of the Department's draft Permit shows that the
ALJ's finding is correct. (FPL Ex. 23). In finding of fact 98 the ALJ contrasted the
contents of the draft Permit document and the Department's other evidence with the
evidence presented by FPL. The ALJ found that FPL seeks approval of two injection:
wells because it needs one well to serve as a back-up and does not intend to operate
both wells simultaneously. FPL has proposed that the injection well system have
“single-well capacity,” even in a situation where both wells may operate simultaneously.
_ (RO p. 46, 9195-96). The ALJ found that FPL does not intend to operate the injection
12
well system at a rate of more than 10 ft/sec, or 12 ft/sec during emergencies. !n other
words FPL does not intend to operate at a combined rate of 20 ft/sec or 24 ft/sec. (RO
p. 46-47, 996). Further, the ALJ found that FPL’s intentions are consistent with the
testimony of the primary expert on this point. FPL’s geologist testified that the Boulder
Zone could receive water at the rate of 10 ft/sec or 12 ft/sec during emergencies and
that during testing and operation only one well would be pumping ata time. FPL’s
geologist also calculated the zone of endangering influence using the maximum
pumping rate of 10 ft/sec, not 20 ft/sec. (RO p. 47, 997).
‘So by contrast, the Department's evidence in the form of its draft Permit did not
explicitly impose on FPL the operating proposal identified in findings of fact 95 through
97. | agree with the ALJ that language should be added to the Permit explicitly
identifying FPL’s operating proposal such that the maximum rate of pumping for the
injection system whether one or both wells are pumping at any given time is 10 fi/sec
during normal operations. The basis for my agreement is the rule requirement in Rule
62-528.415(1)(f) that the “maximum velocity of injected fluid shall not exceed the point
Where the ... structure ofthe formation will be adversely affected."* Thus, based on
the testimony. of FPL's geologist, the formation can receive water at the rate of 10 fl/sec
or 12 fl/sec during emergencies. (RO p. 47, 97).
However, | do not agree with the ALJ’s recommended restriction of the
circumstances under which a maximum pumping rate of 12 ft/sec may be allowed. Rule
? Since I’ve already adopted the ALJ’s findings that none of the Petitioners have proven
standing, I'll note that FPL is still required to comply with this rule. requirement whether
made explicit in the draft Permit or not.
13
62-528.415(1)(f) clearly provides that 12 ft/sec may be allowed “during planned testing,
maintenance, or emergency conditions when one or more wells are taken out of
service.” |t appears thatthe ALJ has incorrectly interpreted the rule's provisions.? A
correct and more reasonable interpretation, based on the plain language of the rule,
allows FPL to design the injection system to allow up to 12 ft/sec “during planned
testing, maintenance, or emergency conditions when one or more wells are taken out of
service.” It appears that it was the ALu's intention to somehow restrict FPL’s ability to
activate the “back-up” well to pump at a maximum rate of 12 ft/sec. every time that the
primary well is being serviced. It is true that routine “servicing of the other well is not an
emergency.” (RO p. 48, 99). However, such servicing of a well falls under
“maintenance” and would justify operating the activated well at up to 12 ftisec in
compliance with the provisions of Rule 62-528.415(1)(f)3.. Thus, the last three
sentences of paragraph 99 also contains the ALJ’s incorrect interpretation of the
provisions of Rule 62-528.415(1)(f)3.*
Therefore, based on the foregoing, FPL’s exception is granted.
——~ by Identification of Hazardous Waste
FPL and the Department take exception to the ALJ's proposed permit condition
that would require FPL to prepare, implement, and document a plan for their waste
streams to determine if they contain hazardous waste. (RO p. 51, 7106). FPL and the
‘Department contend that the basis for the ALJ’s proposed permit condition is an
3 | agree with FPL. that paragraph 100 is a conclusion of law. In addition, the last three
sentences of paragraph 99 is also a conclusion of law.
* Related conclusion of law paragraph 146 is also rejected.
14
erroneous legal conclusion that “process knowledge” cannot be a basis for reasonable
assurance. (RO p. 70-71 qtst-t 52). For the reasons explained below | grant the
exceptions to conclusions of law 99151 and 152. However, with regard to the other
paragraphs of the RO listed in FPL’s (7101, 102, 106) and the Department's (145,
147, 153) exceptions, | deny the exceptions.
The ALJ concluded that the Department has only adopted by reference 40 C.F.R.
Part 261, but not 40 C.F.R. Part 262. (RO p. 70, 9151). This conclusion prevents
reliance by FPL on the “process knowledge” provision in 40 C.F.R. 262.11 as a basis to
provide reasonable assurance that the wastestreams will not contain hazardous waste.
(RO p. 71, 9152). Contrary to the ALJ's conclusion that 40 C.F.R. Part 262 is not
incorporated into Florida law, Fla. Admin. Code R. 62-730.160(1) specifically adopts by
reference all of 40 C.F.R. Part 262, with two exceptions not relevant in this context.
This adoption by reference includes 40 C.F.R. 262.11, the “process knowledge”
provision. Chapter 62-730, applies with independent force of law to all generators of
solid waste, including FPL. As the ALJ noted in paragraph 152, “40 C.F.R. § 262.11
imposes the burden on the person who generates a solid waste, which may include a
wastestream, to determine if the waste is a hazardous waste.” Therefore, applying the
correct interpretation of Florida law allows FPL to “simply rely on a rule authorizing the
use of process knowledge.” (RO p. 71, 9151).
CONCLUSION
The case law of Florida holds that parties to formal administrative proceedings
must alert reviewing agencies to any perceived defects in DOAH hearing procedures or
15
in the findings of fact of ALUs by filing exceptions to DOAH récommended orders. See
Couch v. Commission on Ethics, 617 So.2d 1119, 1124 (Fla. 5th DCA 1993); Florida
Dept. of Corrections v. Bradley, 510 So.2d. 1122, 1124 (Fla. 1st DCA 1987). Having
filed no exceptions to certain findings of fact the party “has thereby expressed its
agreement with, or at least waived any objection to, those findings of fact.”
Environmental Coalition of Florida, Inc. v. Broward County, 586 So.2d 1212, 1213 (Fla.
15 DCA 1991). The ALJ’s RO found that the Petitioners did not prove their standing to
maintain this proceeding. The Petitioners did not file any Exceptions to the RO.
Therefore, those findings are uncontested.
Having considered the applicable law in light of the uncontested findings of fact
set forth in the Recommended Order, and being otherwise duly advised, it is
ORDERED that: |
A. The Recommended Order (Exhibit A) is adopted in its entirety and
incorporated herein by reference.
B. The Amended Petitions are DISMISSED.
C. Florida Power & Light's application for Permit No. 247895-007-UC is
GRANTED. }
Any party to this proceeding has the right to seek judicial review of the Final
Order pursuant to Section 120.68, Florida Statutes, by the filing of a Notice of Appeal
pursuant to Rule 9.110, Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure, with the clerk of the
Department in the Office of General Counsel, 3900 Commonwealth Boulevard, M.S. 35,
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000; and by filing a copy of the Notice of Appeal
16
accompanied by the applicable filing fees with the appropriate District Court of Appeal.
The Notice of Appeal must be filed within 30 days from the date this Final Order is filed
with the clerk.of the Department.
DONE AND ORDERED wie day of April, 2008, in Tallahassee, Florida.
STATE OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT
OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Nun bres be
MICHAEL W. SOLE
Secretary :
Marjory Stoneman Douglas Building
3900 Commonwealth Boulevard
Tallahassee, Florida. 32399-3000
FILED ON THIS DATE PURSUANT TO § 120.52,
FLORIDA STATUTES, WITH THE DESIGNATED
DEPARTMENT CLERK, RECEIPT OF WHICH IS
HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGED.
© Roa fBuchare uals
17
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
| HEREBY CERTIFY that a copy of the foregoing Final Order has been sent by
United States Postal Service to:
Peter Cocotos, Esquire
Florida Power & Light Company
700 Universe Blvd.
West Palm Beach, FL 33408
Alexandria Larson
16933 West Harlena Drive
Loxahatchee, FL 33470
Claudia Llado, Clerk and
Robert E. Meale, Administrative Law Judge
Division of Administrative Hearings
The DeSoto Building
1230 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1550
and by hand delivery to:
Cynthia K..Christen, Esquire
Ronald W. Hoenstine, Ill, Esquire
Department of Environmental Protection
3900 Commonwealth Blvd., M.S. 35
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000
AR
this \) — day of April, 2008.
Michael Christensen
13758 159" Street North
Jupiter, FL 33478
Barry M. Silver, Esquire
1200 South Rogers Circle
Suite 8
Boca Raton, FL 33487
Eric T. Olsen, Esquire
Paula L. Cobb, Esquire
Gary V. Perko, Esquire
Hopping, Green & Sams
123 South Calhoun Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
STATE.OF FLORIDA DEPARTMENT
OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
cate b Whe
18
NCINE M. FFOLKES
Senior Assistant General Counsel
3900 Commonwealth Blvd., M.S. 35
Tallahassee, FL 32399-3000°
Telephone 850/245-2242
Docket for Case No: 07-005062
Issue Date |
Proceedings |
Oct. 06, 2008 |
BY ORDER OF THE COURT: Appellants` motion for extension of time are granted and appellants` initial brief shall be filed on or before October 6, 2008, or the appeal shall be dismissed.
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Sep. 05, 2008 |
BY ORDER OF THE COURT: Appellee`s request filed to set aside order granting appellants` motion is denied.
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Aug. 25, 2008 |
BY ORDER OF THE COURT: Appellants` motion for extension of time is granted.
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May 27, 2008 |
Acknowledgment of New Case, DCA Case No. 4D08-2015.
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Apr. 18, 2008 |
Florida Power & Light Company`s Exceptions to Recommended Order filed.
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Apr. 18, 2008 |
Final Order filed.
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Mar. 18, 2008 |
Respondent Department of Environmental Protection`s Exceptions to the Recommended Order filed.
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Mar. 03, 2008 |
Recommended Order (hearing held January 22-25, 2008). CASE CLOSED.
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Mar. 03, 2008 |
Recommended Order cover letter identifying the hearing record referred to the Agency.
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Feb. 25, 2008 |
Respondent`s Exhibits (exhibits not available for viewing) filed. |
Feb. 25, 2008 |
Letter to parties of record from Judge Meale regarding the referenced exhibit.
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Feb. 12, 2008 |
Petitioner, Alexandria Larson`s Proposed Final Order filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Petitioners Peter Tsolkas and the Palm Beach County Environmental Coalition`s Proposed Recommended Order filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Petitioner Christensens` Proposed Recommended Order filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Notice of Filing Proposed Recommended Order filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Florida Power & Light Company`s Proposed Recommended Order filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Petitioners Peter Tsolkas and the Palm Beach County Environmental Coalition`s Proposed Recommended Order filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s Closing Argument (unsigned) filed.
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Feb. 11, 2008 |
Proposed Recommended Order of Department of Environmental Protection filed.
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Jan. 31, 2008 |
Transcript (pages 1274-1446; duplicate) filed. |
Jan. 30, 2008 |
Transcript (pages 1-1446) filed. |
Jan. 30, 2008 |
Notice of Filing Hearing Transcript filed.
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Jan. 25, 2008 |
CASE STATUS: Hearing Held. |
Jan. 18, 2008 |
Notice of Appearance (filed by G. Perko).
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Jan. 18, 2008 |
Amended Pre-hearing Stipulation filed.
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Jan. 16, 2008 |
Notice of Transfer.
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Errata to Florida Power & Light Company`s Response to Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Set of Interrogatories filed.
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Notice of Errata to Florida Power & Light Company`s Response to Petitoiner Alexandria Larson`s First Set of Interrogatories filed.
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Pre-hearing Stipulation filed.
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Notice of Filing Pre-Hearing Stipulation Between Florida Power & Light Co. and the Department of Environmental Protection filed.
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Notice of Service of Department of Environmental Protection`s Response to Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Reuest for Production of Documents filed.
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Order (motion to extend discovery schedule is granted).
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Jan. 15, 2008 |
Order Granting Motion to Strike and Motion in Limine.
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Jan. 14, 2008 |
Notice of Filing Exhibits to Florida Power & Light Company`s Unopposed Motion to Extend Discovery Schedule filed.
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Jan. 11, 2008 |
Florida Power & Light Company`s Unopposed Motion to Extend Discovery Schedule filed.
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Jan. 11, 2008 |
Notice of Taking Deposition Duces Tecum filed.
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Jan. 10, 2008 |
Notice of Service of Department of Environmental Protection`s Reponse to Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Set of Interrogatories filed.
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Jan. 09, 2008 |
Response to Respondents Motion in Limine dated 12/21/07 filed.
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Jan. 09, 2008 |
Notice of Service of Florida Power and Light Company`s Response to Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Set of Interrogatories filed.
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Jan. 09, 2008 |
Notice of Service of FLP`s Response to Petitioner Michael Christensen`s First Request for Production of Documents filed.
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Jan. 09, 2008 |
Notice of Service of FLP`s Response to Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Request for Production of Documents filed.
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Jan. 03, 2008 |
Order Granting Extension of Time (Mr. Christensen`s Response to FPL`s Motions to be filed by January 9, 2008).
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Jan. 03, 2008 |
Respondent Florida Power & Light Company`s Reply to Petitioner Christensen`s Response to Respondents Motions filed.
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Dec. 28, 2007 |
Notice of Taking Deposition Duces Tecum filed.
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Dec. 28, 2007 |
Response to Respondents Motions filed.
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Dec. 27, 2007 |
Order Denying Motion to Disqualify.
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Dec. 21, 2007 |
Motion to Strike and Motion in Limine filed.
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Dec. 21, 2007 |
Department of Environmental Protection`s Motion to Strike filed.
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Dec. 21, 2007 |
Amended Certificate of Service filed.
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Dec. 21, 2007 |
Florida Power & Light`s Response to Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s Motion to Disqualify Administrative Law Judge Assigned to Case filed.
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Dec. 20, 2007 |
Department of Environmental Protection`s Motion to Strike filed.
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Dec. 20, 2007 |
Department of Environmental Protection`s Motion to Strike (without signature and certificate of service date) filed.
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Dec. 19, 2007 |
Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s (witness list) filed.
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Dec. 19, 2007 |
Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s Motion to Disqualify Administrative Law Judge Assigned to Case filed.
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Dec. 18, 2007 |
FLP`s Notice of Service of Witness Disclosure filed.
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Dec. 18, 2007 |
Department of Environmental Protection`s Notice of Filing Witness List filed.
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Dec. 14, 2007 |
Notice of Taking Deposition Duces Tecum filed.
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Dec. 14, 2007 |
Notice of Taking Deposition Duces Tecum filed.
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Dec. 14, 2007 |
Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Request for Production of Documents to Respondent Florida Power and Light filed.
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Dec. 14, 2007 |
Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Request for Production of Documents to Respondent Department of Environmental Protection filed.
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Dec. 14, 2007 |
Notice and Certificate of Service of Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Set of Interrogatories to Respondent Florida Power and Light filed.
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Dec. 14, 2007 |
Notice and Certificate of Service of Petitioner Alexandria Larson`s First Set of Interrogatories to Respondent State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection filed.
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Dec. 13, 2007 |
Amended Notice of Taking Deposition Duces Tecum filed.
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Dec. 11, 2007 |
Notice of Taking Deposition Duces Tecum filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s Responses to Respondent Florida Power and Light Company Request for Production filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s Responses to Respondent Florida Department of Environmental Protection Request for Production filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s Request for Production of Documents filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s First Request for Respondent Florida Power and Light Production of Documents filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s Notice of Serving Answers to Respondent Florida Department of Environmental Protection First Interrogatories filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s Notice of Serving Answers to Respondent Florida Power and Light Company First Interrogatories filed.
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Dec. 10, 2007 |
Petitioner`s Witness List filed.
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Nov. 30, 2007 |
Notice of Service of Respondent Florida Power & Light Company`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Palm Beach County Environmental Coalition filed.
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Nov. 30, 2007 |
Notice of Service of Respondent Florida Power & Light Company`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Michael Christensen filed.
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Nov. 30, 2007 |
Notice of Service of Respondent Florida Power & Light Company`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Peter Tsolkas filed.
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Nov. 30, 2007 |
Notice of Service of Respondent Florida Power & Light Company`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Alexandria Larson filed.
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Nov. 30, 2007 |
Order Denying Motion for Rehearing.
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Nov. 28, 2007 |
Motion for Rehearing of Order Dated 11/21/07 Rejecting Challenge to the Monitor Well filed.
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Nov. 27, 2007 |
Notice of Appearance (filed in Case No. 07-5063 by C. Christen).
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Nov. 27, 2007 |
Notice of Appearance (filed in Case No. 07-5062 by C. Christen).
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Nov. 27, 2007 |
Notice of Appearance (filed by C. Christen).
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Nov. 26, 2007 |
Notice and Certificate of Service of Respondent DEP`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Peter Tsolkas filed.
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Nov. 26, 2007 |
Notice and Certificate of Service of Respondent DEP`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Alexandria Larson filed.
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Nov. 26, 2007 |
Notice and Certificate of Service of Respondent DEP`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Michael Christensen filed.
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Nov. 26, 2007 |
Notice and Certificate of Service of Respondent DEP`s First Set of Interrogatories to Petitioner Palm Beach Environmental Coalition filed.
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Nov. 21, 2007 |
Order of Consolidation (DOAH Case Nos. |
Nov. 20, 2007 |
Notice of Voluntary Dismissal (filed in Case No. 07-004744).
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Nov. 20, 2007 |
Notice of Voluntary Dismissal with Prejudice filed.
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Nov. 19, 2007 |
Governor Crist Signs Open Record "Bill of Rights" filed.
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Nov. 16, 2007 |
Order (all relief requested in the motion is denied).
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Nov. 15, 2007 |
Florida Power & Light`s Response in Opposition to Petitioner`s Motion for Summary Judgment and Denial of Respondents Issuance and Acceptance of Permit Privilege filed.
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Nov. 15, 2007 |
Response to Petitioner`s Motions filed.
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Nov. 08, 2007 |
Motion for Summary Judgement and Denial of Respondents Issuance and Acceptance of Permit Privilege filed.
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Nov. 07, 2007 |
Order Granting Continuance and Re-scheduling Hearing (hearing set for January 22 through 25, 2008; 9:00 a.m.; West Palm Beach, FL).
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Nov. 07, 2007 |
Order Consolidating Cases (DOAH Case Nos. 07-3881, 07-4744, 07-5047, 07-5062, and 07-5063).
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Nov. 05, 2007 |
Initial Order.
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Nov. 02, 2007 |
Motion to Consolidate filed.
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Nov. 02, 2007 |
Intent to Issue Notice filed.
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Nov. 02, 2007 |
Amended Petition to Rescind Final Permit filed.
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Nov. 02, 2007 |
Amended Petition for Administrative Hearing filed.
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Nov. 02, 2007 |
Request for Administrative Hearing filed.
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Nov. 02, 2007 |
Request for Assignment of Administrative Law Judge and Notice of Preservation of Record filed.
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Orders for Case No: 07-005062
Issue Date |
Document |
Summary |
Apr. 17, 2008 |
Agency Final Order
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Mar. 03, 2008 |
Recommended Order
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Petitioners failed to prove standing to challenge the permit for deep well injection of industrial waste, but DEP should revise the permit to state the maximum pumping rate and procedure for handling and documenting the handling of hazardous waste.
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