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HomeEnvironmental ImpactsHead of EPA pledges to tackle environmental inequalities in Watts

Head of EPA pledges to tackle environmental inequalities in Watts

“EPA Pledges to Address Environmental Issues in Watts Community Alongside Residents”

The head of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Michael Regan, has made a commitment to collaborate with residents of Watts to tackle a range of environmental concerns in the South Los Angeles community. During a visit to the Jordan Downs public housing complex in Watts, Regan stated that the EPA is working in conjunction with state and federal partners to address elevated lead levels in the community’s drinking water and pollution stemming from scrap metal recycler S&W Atlas Iron & Metal Co.

Regan expressed his concern over the environmental injustices that communities like Watts have endured for too long, citing issues such as the unsafe operations of Atlas Metals and lead contamination in the drinking water at Jordan Downs. Following the release of a study by Southern California researchers revealing lead-tainted water in public housing developments in Watts, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has supplied the city housing authority with over 2,000 water sampling kits.

Preliminary data from testing conducted on kitchen faucets in the Nickerson Gardens public housing development showed that 43 samples had lead levels below five parts per billion, while 27 samples had undetectable levels. Although elevated lead levels were found in exterior hose bibs, the housing authority stated that there was no apparent correlation between the bibs and in-unit sinks.

Regan emphasized that no amount of lead in drinking water is safe, particularly for children who are more vulnerable to its effects. He assured that once more comprehensive results are available, a better understanding of the extent of the issue and the necessary steps to address it will be gained.

The EPA had previously issued an order in March for Atlas Metals to take measures to prevent chemicals from contaminating storm drains and the school grounds of Jordan High School, which had been affected by metallic dust and metal shrapnel. The company and its owners, Matthew Weisenberg and Gary Weisenberg, faced charges in Los Angeles County Superior Court related to hazardous waste disposal and failure to minimize explosion or fire risks.

Regan affirmed that the EPA would utilize all available resources to hold Atlas Metals accountable for their actions, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of the Watts community. He mentioned the potential eligibility of the site for the EPA’s Brownfields Program if Atlas were to relocate, which offers grants and assistance for the assessment, cleanup, and sustainable reuse of contaminated properties.

Community members, including 15-year-old Andrew Anderson, participated in a meeting with Regan, Mayor Karen Bass, and Councilmember Tim McOsker to discuss the environmental issues facing Watts. Anderson, a freshman at Jordan High School, expressed concerns about his classmates’ trust in the safety of their drinking water and highlighted the importance of addressing these issues collectively.

Anderson appreciated the support of the officials in addressing the community’s concerns, stating that they felt heard during the meeting. The collaborative efforts between residents, government officials, and environmental agencies signify a step towards addressing and resolving the environmental challenges faced by the Watts community.

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