Previous Story
Senate moves to close dump
|
Posted on Jan 17 2001
The Senate adopted a resolution yesterday asking the Director of Procurement and Supply to begin accepting innovative proposals that will explore methods and options to facilitate the immediate closure of Puerto Rico Dump.
While the CNMI Legislature has appropriated $26 million for the design and construction of a new solid waste facility at Marpi, the Senators acknowledged that the funds are not adequate to allow for the regulatory compliant closure of the dump.
The comprehensive solid waste program includes the establishment of a transfer station, waste to energy incinerator and recycling program.
Introduced by Senate Floor Leader Pete Reyes, the resolution recommended amendments to the ongoing bid process for the construction of the Lower Base Refuse Transfer Station and Marpi Solid Waste Facility to include a Request for Proposal for the complete regulatory closure of the dump.
The CNMI government has been discussing the closure of Puerto Rico Dump since 1989 with federal authorities as it poses health and environmental problems. In addition, the Senators emphasized that the presence of the dump affects the image of Saipan as a tourist destination.
In 1995, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an Administrative Order to the CNMI government in order to force the administration into compliance with the Clean Water Act and other environmental laws.
The Senators expressed grave concern for the immediate need to address the health and environmental hazards of the dump.
As part of its plan to urgently solve the chronic health hazard and existing federal administrative order, the CNMI government is seeking proposals for complete construction management, environmental consulting services necessary to ensure the proper physical and regulatory closure, development of land usage and construction and financing options to the CNMI to accomplish the scope of the work in relation to Puerto Rico dump. (LFR)
