Public Notice: Re-Authorization Approval for Disposal Of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) at Republic Services - Itasca Landfill
Summary
The EPA Region 6, Dallas, Texas office proposes to re-authorize the current storage facility, Itasca Landfill, located at 2559 FM 66, Itasca, Texas, for the disposal of polychlorinated biphenyls. Republic Services requested approval to operate their existing disposal facility. The South Unit of the landfill has an area of 226.8 acres. A portion of this unit with a capacity of 14.5 million cubic yards is authorized for the disposal of both PCB and non-PCB waste. This proposal authorizes the disposal of PCB waste in the amount not to exceed 100,000 tons annually.
EPA has authority to issue approvals for the disposal of PCBs under Section 6(e) of the Toxic Substances Control Act in accordance with the federal regulations at Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations Section 761.75. After reviewing all the information submitted by the facility, EPA finds that all requirements for the operation of a PCB disposal facility have been met.
PCBs belong to a broad family of man-made organic chemicals known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. PCBs were domestically manufactured from 1929 until manufacturing was banned in 1979. They have a range of toxicity and vary in consistency from thin, light-colored liquids to yellow or black waxy solids. Due to their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point and electrical insulating properties, PCBs were used in hundreds of industrial and commercial applications.
EPA has determined under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act that historic properties will not be affected by the proposed reauthorization. EPA has determined under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act that the proposed reauthorization will not affect any listed species or designated critical habitat.
The 45-day comment period starts December 2, 2024 and ends on January 16, 2025, during which requests may be made for a public hearing. The decision to hold a hearing is at the discretion of the EPA and will be based on factors such as the degree of public interest, the substance of comments, and whether a hearing is needed to clarify relevant issues. To obtain a copy of the proposed approval documentation, please visit the Region 6 PCBs webpage.