Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
California Environmental Protection Agency
DEPARTMENT OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES CONTROL Region 3, 1011 North Grandview Avenue, Glendale, CA 91201
Para información en español por favor comuníquese con Leticia Hernández al (714) 484-5488.
Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility 22116 West Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, California
May, 2004
Approved by:
________________________________________
Tim Chauvel
Public Participation Specialist
Department of Toxic Substances Control
(714) 484-5487, Fax 714-484-5329
Email: [emailprotected]
Initial draft submitted by: Whittaker Corporation,
in consultation with CERREL & Associates Inc.
Whittaker prepared this Plan in accordance with
the requirements of the Imminent and Substantial
Endangerment and Remedial Action Order-
Docket No. IS&E 02/03-009, November 2002,
Section 5.8, page 30; Health & Safety Code
sections 25356.1 and 25358.7; and DTSC’s 2001,
Public Participation and Guidance Manual
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 ORGANIZATION OF THIS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN .......................................................... 2
1.2 SOURCES OF INFORMATION USED FOR THIS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN...................... 2
1.3 AGENCIES WITH OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITIES........................................................................ 3
2.0 FACILITY DESCRIPTION AND HISTORY ......................................................................................... 4
2.1 SITE LOCATION, DESCRIPTION, AND SURROUNDING LAND USE ........................................... 4
2.2 FACILITY HISTORY.............................................................................................................................. 5
FIGURE 1. WHITTAKER-BERMITE SITE LOCATION MAP................................................................. 6
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF CONTAMINATED SITES AND CLEANUP ACTIVITIES.................................. 7
3.1 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS USAGE AT THE SITE ........................................................................... 7
3.2 INVESTIGATION AND CLEANUP ...................................................................................................... 7
3.3 WORK IN PROGRESS ........................................................................................................................... 8
TABLE 1. WHITTAKER-BERMITE OPERABLE UNIT (OU) SCHEDULE........................................... 10
FIGURE 2. WHITTAKER-BERMITE OPERABLE UNIT (OU) SITE LOCATION MAP...................... 10
4.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND OUTREACH.................................................................................... 11
4.1 COMMUNITY CONCERNS................................................................................................................. 11
4.2 STAKEHOLDER CONCERNS............................................................................................................. 11
4.3 DEVELOPMENT OF THREE STEP PUBLIC OUTREACH STRATEGY......................................... 12
4.4 IMPLEMENTATION OF PUBLIC OUTREACH STRATEGY........................................................... 12
TABLE 2. WHITTAKER-BERMITE 2004 PUBLIC OUTREACH STRATEGY ..................................... 14
APPENDIX A — KEY CONTACTS AND DTSC’S MANDATORY MAILING LIST............................ 15
APPENDIX B — COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS............................................................................. 19
APPENDIX C — DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE .......................................................................................... 61
APPENDIX D — HISTORY OF WHITTAKER’S ROLE IN SITE CLEANUP ACTIVITIES, AND
ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN UNDER THE 2002 UNILATERAL ORDER................................................. 62
APPENDIX E — LOCATIONS WHERE YOU CAN FIND SITE RELATED INFORMATION............. 66
APPENDIX F — CHEMICAL AND WASTE SUMMARY BY PRODUCT CATEGORY……………...67
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this Public Participation
Plan (Plan) is to promote effective
communication between the Department
of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC),
the community, and other stakeholders
associated with the cleanup of the
Whittaker-Bermite Facility located in
Santa Clarita, California. DTSC will use
this Plan to identify community concerns
and issues related to the site, and to
outline a strategy for keeping the
community informed and involved
throughout the cleanup process. A
further goal of this Plan is to present a
summary overview of historical and
ongoing site characterization and
cleanup activities.
The former Whittaker-Bermite Facility
is the site of historic ordnance
manufacturing by a series of companies
dating back to the 1930s. As a result of
this past industrial use of the property
the DTSC has determined that certain
substances are present in soil and
groundwater at levels that require
remediation to prepare the site for
redevelopment and protect surface and
ground water quality. Section 2 and
Appendix E give more details on the
contamination and cleanup activities
taking place at the site.
1.1 Organization of this Public
Participation Plan
Section 1.0 describes the purpose of this
Plan, introduces the site, lists the sources
of information used to prepare the Plan,
and describes the agencies that oversee
the site.
Section 2.0 outlines the site location and
surrounding land use, and gives a brief
history of the manufacturing operations
at the facility.
Section 3.0 explains the hazardous
materials contamination at the site and
the investigation and cleanup activities.
Section 4.0 summarizes community and
stakeholder concerns about the site
based on surveys and interviews, and
describes the three step public outreach
process DTSC will implement to keep
the community informed and involved.
Appendix A is a list of key contacts.
Appendix B is a summary of the
community survey results sent to 5,000
local residents.
Appendix C gives a demographic
profile of the community surrounding
the site.
Appendix D gives a detailed history of
Whittaker’s involvement in the site
investigation and cleanup.
Appendix E gives locations where
technical documentation about the site
assessment and cleanup can be reviewed.
1.2 Sources of Information Used
for this Public Participation Plan
This Plan is based on information
gathered from interviews with elected
state and county officials, the Santa
Clarita City Council, the Santa Clarita
Chamber of Commerce, the
Whittaker/Bermite Community Advisory
Group (CAG), and the Santa Clarita
Organization for Planning and the
Environment (SCOPE).
This Plan was also based on
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demographic data and file information
from Whittaker Corporation and public
comments from a community survey
mailed to approximately 5000 residents
and businesses living near the facility.
1.3 Agencies with Oversight
Responsibilities
Department of Toxic Substances
Control (DTSC). DTSC regulates
hazardous waste facilities and oversees
the cleanup of hazardous waste sites in
California.
Department of Health Services (DHS).
DHS enforces the federal and state Safe
Drinking Water Acts. DHS also
evaluates and approves treatment
technologies for contaminated drinking
water supplies. In addition, the DHS
Radiological Branch provides oversight
and workplan review input for the
remedial activities involving radiological
issues associated with the depleted
uranium in Operable unit 3.
Regional Water Quality Control
Board (RWQCB). The mission of the
RWQCB is to preserve and enhance the
quality of California’s water and to work
with DTSC to assess regional
groundwater quality. The RWQCB
oversees and enforces waste discharge
permits.
South Coast Air Quality Management
District (SCAQMD). The South Coast
Air Quality Management District makes
and enforces air pollution regulations.
AQMD also has broad authority to
regulate toxic and hazardous air
emissions.
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2.0 FACILITY DESCRIPTION AND
HISTORY
2.1 Site Location, Description,
and Surrounding Land Use
The former Whittaker, Bermite Facility
is located at 22116 West Soledad
Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, California
91352. The location of the Property is
shown in Figure 1.
The Property covers approximately 996
acres. It consists of chaparral covering
the undisturbed portions of the acreage,
firebreaks, dirt roads and remnants of
building foundations. The climate is
semi-arid and the landscape includes
steep hillsides with intermittent streams
and deep canyons.
Whittaker ceased operations at the
facility in 1987 and removed most of the
structures at that time. Approximately 20
structures still remain in the northern
portion of the site, which were or are
still used as offices.
The surrounding areas consist of
commercial (retail), light industrial
(business park), and residential land
uses. The Saugus Speedway is northwest
of the property. The Circle J Ranch
residential community borders the
property to the south. Approximately 10
acres along the northern fringe of the
Property have been developed as a
Metrolink commuter rail station.
The following is a list of schools,
preschools, and community activity
centers located in close proximity to the
Whittaker facility:
Golden Valley High School
20501 Golden Valley Road,
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Bowman Continuation High School
21508 Centre Pointe Parkway,
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Child & Family Center
Kids Corner Preschool – Circle of Care
21545 Centre Pointe Parkway
Santa Clarita, CA
CBS Early Childhood Education Centre
Congregation Beth Shalom
21430 Centre Pointe Parkway
Santa Clarita, CA
Creative Years Nursery School
21710 West Golden Triangle Road
Santa Clarita, CA
Notre Dame Infant Centre & Preschool
21706 West Golden Triangle Road
Santa Clarita, CA
His Little Lambs Preschool
A Ministry of Faith Community Church
21704 West Golden Triangle Road
Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita Sports Complex
20870 Centre Pointe Parkway,
Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita Aquatic Center
20850 Center Pointe Parkway,
Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita Activity Center
20880 Centre Pointe Parkway,
Santa Clarita, CA
Please note that the above schools and
activity centers are not located on the
facility location map on page 6.
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2.2 Facility History
During the early history of the site,
manufacturing was restricted to the
northern portion of the Property. The
manufacturing plant later expanded
toward the southeast into the central
portion of the property. Of the entire
996 acres, the actual production facilities
occupied approximately 50 acres.
Early Explosives Manufacturing at
the Site: 1934-1967
From 1934 to 1936, the Los Angeles
Powder Company reportedly
manufactured dynamite on the site. In
1939, Golden State Fireworks produced
fireworks. The Halifax Explosives
Company reportedly manufactured
fireworks at the facility from 1936 to
1942. The Bermite Powder Company
produced detonators, fuzes, boosters,
coated magnesium, and stabilized red
phosphorus from 1942 to 1967. In
addition, between 1942 and 1953 they
produced flares, photoflash bombs for
battlefield illumination, and other
explosives.
Whittaker’s Operations at the Site:
1967-1987
Whittaker purchased Bermite Company
and assumed ownership of the property
in 1967. The property became known as
the Whittaker-Bermite Facility.
Whittaker operated the property from
1967 through 1987, as a munitions
manufacturing, testing and storage
facility. They manufactured various
products in the general categories listed
below:
- Ammunition rounds
- Detonators, fuzes, and boosters
- Flares and signal cartridges
- Glow plugs, tracers, and pyrophoric
pellets
- Igniters, ignition compositions, and
explosive bolts
- Power charges
- Rocket motors and gas generators
- Missile main charges
Some of the products listed were
produced in small quantities while others
were mass-produced as a result of large
defense contracts. Other products
remained in research and development
stages and were tested onsite.
In 1987, the facility ceased all of its
manufacturing, testing, and storage of
ordnance and explosive items.
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Figure 1. Whittaker-Bermite Site Location Map
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3.0 DESCRIPTION OF
CONTAMINATED SITES AND
CLEANUP ACTIVITIES
3.1 Hazardous Materials Usage
at the Site
Hazardous materials used at the facility
included lead azide, red phosphorus,
barium, zinc, copper, chromium, and
chlorinated solvents such as
tetrachlorethylene (PCE) and
trichloroethylene (TCE). Potassium and
ammonium perchlorate were used in
propellant mixtures for various rocket
and missile motors. Depleted uranium
and mercury were also tested and used at
the facility. See Appendix F (page 67)
for a full summary of hazardous
materials used at the site.
Whittaker operated a total of 14
treatment, storage, and disposal units
that were permitted under interim status
provisions of the Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act (RCRA). These
included surface impoundments, burn
areas, waste ordnance storage
magazines, a detonation range, and a
hazardous waste treatment and storage
facility. Liquids containing regulated
hazardous wastes were collected in
containers and transported off the site for
recycling or disposal at permitted
facilities.
Non-hazardous solid waste, refuse, and
demolition debris were disposed of on
site, primarily in areas that had been
used as landfills since the early 1930s.
Because these were not hazardous
wastes, they were not included in the
RCRA interim permit.
3.2 Investigation and Cleanup
The Property has been divided into
seven Operable Units (OUs), see Figure
2, page 10. These operable units group
together areas that are topographically
connected with common drainages with
exception of the groundwater OU 7.
Using operable units makes the
investigation and cleanup easier to
manage and more efficient to conduct
clean up operations.
OU 1 through 6 are soil OUs that are
focused on assessing soil contamination
from the surface to 200 feet below
ground surface.
OU 1 is located along the eastern
boundary of the property and was
divided in 1999 into five sub-OUs,
known as A, B, C, D, and E, in order to
expedite the construction of Golden
Valley Road for the City of Santa
Clarita. OU1 A, B, and C, were
investigated under the DTSC
Preliminary Endangerment Assessment
process. Potential contaminants of
concern identified during the Remedial
Investigation of OU1 D and E include:
- Perchlorate
- Volatile Organic Compounds
- Metals (not specified at this time)
OU 2 is located adjacent to OU1 D
south, and contains OU6 within its
boundary. The potential contaminants of
concern include:
- Perchlorate
- Volatile Organic Compounds
- Metals (not specified at this time)
OU 3 is located in the central portion of
the property. The potential contaminants
of concern include:
- Perchlorate
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- Volatile Organic Compounds
- Mercury
- Buried Waste
- Depleted Uranium
- Ordnance Explosive Items
OU 4 is located in western portion of the
property. The potential contaminants of
concern include:
- Perchlorate
- Buried Waste
- Ordnance Explosives
OU 5 is located in the northern portion
of the property. The potential
contaminants of concern include:
- Perchlorate
- Volatile Organic Compounds
- Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds
- Ordnance Explosives
- Metals (silver)
OU 6 is the one remaining RCRA unit
that has not yet been closed located
within OU 2. This site has soil and
groundwater that has been contaminated
with TCE and during the recent 2003
field investigation perchlorate has also
been identified.
OU 7 encompasses all the groundwater
throughout the site and area where soil
contamination was identified below 200
feet. The main contaminants of concern
in the groundwater are:
- Perchlorate
- Volatile Organic Compounds
Regional Groundwater Study
In 2002, Congress funded a region-wide
study of groundwater contamination in
the Eastern Santa Clara River Subbasin
region. This study, co-sponsored by the
Castaic Lake Water Agency, is based on
the fact that many facilities in the region,
including the Bermite facility, were
involved in the production of products
for the U.S. military. This project is
administered by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. The investigation activities
are being integrated and incorporated
into the OU7 Remedial Investigation
program that Whittaker is performing
under DTSC oversight.
3.3 Work in Progress
Whittaker consultants and contractors
are currently conducting additional
investigations in OU1D, OU2. OU3 and
OU6 to further characterize and assess
the condition of the Property. The
known source areas identified during
previous site investigations conducted in
1995 through 1998 and other suspect
areas since identified will be further
investigated, characterized, and
evaluated as required.
Additional sampling is proposed where
previous site investigations have
identified contaminants of concern from
a list of chemicals potentially present in
specific areas of the site.
As with the initial investigations,
fieldwork will include soil borings,
investigative trenching, soil gas surveys,
geological fault investigations, ordnance
and explosive waste surveys, installation
of monitoring wells, well development,
aquifer testing and other activities.
Whittaker has retained a contractor with
specialized training and expertise in
dealing with potential ordnance
explosives including unexploded
ordnance (UXO). This contractor
performed a study, funded by the U.S.
Army, to demonstrate technologies for
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the removal of landfill material that may
contain unexploded ordnance.
See Table 1. (page 9) for DTSC’s
proposed OU work schedule. Also see
Appendix D (page 62) for a more in
depth history of Whittaker’s role in site
cleanup activities, and additional actions
to be conducted under the November
2002 Imminent and Substantial
Endangerment Order.
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Table 1. Whittaker-Bermite Operable Unit (OU) Schedule
OPERABLE
UNIT
WORKPLAN
DUE
INVESTIGATION
COMPLETE
FINAL RI
REPORT
DUE
FINAL FS
REPORT
DUE
DRAFT
RAP
DUE
FINAL
RAP
DUE
EXPECTED DATE OF
CERTIFICATION
OU1 Complete Complete April
2004
April
2004
May
2004
June
2004
June 2005
OU2/OU6 Complete Aug. 2003 Dec.
2003
May
2004
Sept
2004
Nov
2004
Oct 2006
OU3 July 2003 Jan. 2004 May
2004
Sept.
2004
Jan
2005
Mar
2005
Mar 2007
OU4 Jan 2004 July 2004 Jan
2005
Mar
2005
July
2005
Sept
2005
Nov 2006
OU5 Dec 2003 May 2004 Sept
2004
Dec
2004
Mar
2005
May
2005
May 2007
OU7
Alluvium
June 2003 Jan 2004 June
2004
Dec
2004
June
2005
Aug
2005
Aug 2010
OU7
Saugus
July 2003 Jan 2004 June
2004
Dec
2004
June
2005
Aug
2005
Aug 2010
Note: The dates outlined in the above OU schedule are estimations dependent upon conditions identified
during field activities that are beyond the control of the field investigation and remedial action field teams
using best available control technology. Certification means DTSC has approved the implementation of the
remediation methods or technology. Operations and maintenance may continue until DTSC deems the site
is cleaned up to the required level.
Figure 2. Whittaker-Bermite Operable Unit (OU) Site Location Map
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4.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
AND OUTREACH
Dating back to the early 1990’s, a
number of fact sheets focusing on the
status of the site investigation and
cleanup efforts were produced by DTSC.
More recently, the City of Santa Clarita
provided additional bulletin and Web
site updates regarding the property,
property owner, and the City’s efforts to
expedite the remediation of the soil and
groundwater.
In 1998, a Community Advisory Group
(CAG) was formed by local residents
concerned with the health and safety of
the community and the pace of cleanup.
Between 1999, when Santa Clarita, LLC
(SCLLC) purchased the Property, and
SCLLC’s default in 2001-02, DTSC and
SCLLC regularly addressed the
community at CAG meetings and City
Council and/or Planning Commission
Study Sessions.
CAG History
The CAG has been instrumental in
focusing concern on specific issues that
are of importance to the community.
Appendix B community survey
comment number 113, pages 32 & 33,
gives a more detailed account of the
CAG’s formation and interaction with
Government officials.
4.1 Community Concerns
Members of the public forwarded 658
written responses to a July 2003, DTSC
community survey questionnaire that
was mailed out to five thousand
residents and businesses. Public
comment relating to DTSC’s site
investigation and cleanup activities
focused on the following main concerns:
¶ Perceived exposure to water
contaminated with perchlorate (a
primary ingredient in the
manufacture of rocket
propellant), was cited as the
number one concern.
¶ Perceived exposure to dust blown
chemical contaminants.
¶ Protection of children’s health
from the perceived exposure to
chemical contaminants was of
paramount importance to parents.
¶ Repeated frustration was
expressed at the lack of cleanup
of groundwater contamination
which resulted in the shutting
down of five water supply wells.
¶ The community expressed an
overwhelming need for
information that clearly indicates
the potential risk and safeguards
concerning the protection of
public health.
The complete survey results and
associated unabridged public comment
can be found in Appendix B, and also on
DTSC’s Web site at:
http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/SiteCleanup/Whi
ttaker_Bermite/index.html.
4.2 Stakeholder Concerns
Face-to-face interviews were undertaken
with Government officials and
community representatives between May
and August, 2003. Interviewees’
comments and concerns focused on the
following main points:
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¶ Protect the short-and-long-term
health of the community.
¶ Protection and cleaning of public
drinking water supplies and
groundwater is the number one
priority.
¶ An aggressive timetable is
needed in order to move forward
with both soil and groundwater
investigation and remediation
activities.
¶ Direct communication between
DTSC, stakeholders, and the
public must be enhanced.
¶ The Department needs to be
more proactive in engaging the
public.
¶ Need for a coordinated
comprehensive public education
outreach effort.
¶ Public information must focus on
outlining the ongoing site
characterization and cleanup
activities.
¶ Information must be descriptive
and non-technical. Technical
documents can be placed on
DTSC’s Website.
¶ Communication efforts must
focus on several forms of media
that will approach the broadest
audience possible.
4.3 Development of Three Step
Public Outreach Strategy
After review of the community survey
results, face-to-face interview notes, and
the incorporation of a closing round of
stakeholder comment, a public outreach
strategy was identified that incorporates
the following three steps:
¶ Step 1: Development of specific
information that will be used to
address community health
concerns, and will inform the
community of ongoing site
characterization and cleanup
activities.
¶ Step 2: Development of a list of
communication tools and
outreach activities that will be
applied in order to reach a
broader and expanded cross
section of the community.
¶ Step 3: Implementation of an
action item timetable indicating
the responsible party and
timeline for each public outreach
step that will be undertaken.
4.4 Implementation of Public
Outreach Strategy
In order to address public concerns
effectively, DTSC and key stakeholders
have agreed to implement a public
outreach strategy that focuses on an
integrated multi-stakeholder
communication approach that utilizes
resources and communication tools.
Implementation of the communication
outreach strategy will start in early 2004.
Ideally, the strategy will be flexible
enough to incorporate and implement
new public outreach tools and
information as needed.
The communication strategy will be
evaluated annually in order to gauge the
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effectiveness of the outreach in
addressing community and stakeholder
concerns.
As agreed by DTSC and key
stakeholders, Table 2 (page 14) outlines
the public outreach strategy that will be
implemented in 2004 and beyond.
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Table 2. Whittaker-Bermite 2004 Public Outreach Strategy Action Communication
Tools
Required by
Law
Responsible
Party
Timeline
¶ Draft Remedial Action Plan
(RAP) for Operable Unit 1 (OU1)
¶ Draft Negative Declaration
(Neg. Dec) as required by the
California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA)
NOTE: As indicated in Table 1,
page 10, DTSC estimates that
seven RAPs and associated
CEQA related oversight will be
undertaken between 2004 and
2010.
BACKGROUND: Draft RAPs
describe best proposed cost-
effective cleanup actions for each
OU that is protective of human
health and the environment. Draft
CEQA Neg. Dec. evaluates the
possible effect of the RAP
cleanup on the surrounding
environment. Draft Neg. Dec is
available for review and public
comment during the same period
as the Draft RAP.
¶ Fact sheet
¶ Public notice
¶ Public Hearing
¶ 30-day public
comment period
¶ Formal
response to public
comments
¶ DTSC Web site
www.dtsc.ca.gov
¶ Facility mailing
list
¶ E-mail list
¶ Free call in
number (661)
705-1444
YES
Department of
Toxic Substances
Control (DTSC)
Start
2004
through
2010
¶ Two six monthly updates on
soil and groundwater
investigations, remediation
activities, and perchlorate
contamination cleanup
activities.
¶ Fact sheet
¶ Web site
¶ Mailing list
¶ E-mail list
¶ Public meetings
¶ Call in number
(661) 705-1444
NO
DTSC/Whittaker/
Cerrell &
Associates
Start 2004
(Ongoing/
as required)
¶ Yearly updates on the property,
property ownership, and
cleanup actions.
¶ Newsletter(s)
¶ City Web site
www.santa-
clarita.com
¶ Mailing list
NO City of Santa
Clarita
Ongoing/
as required
¶ Ongoing development of
expanded outreach to Home
Owner Associations (HOA),
Schools, and local residents.
¶ Yearly review of public
outreach strategy.
¶ CAG meetings
¶ Mailing list
¶ E-mail list
¶ Media outreach
¶ Web site(s)
¶ Call in number
(661) 705-1444
NO
DTSC/Whittaker/
CAG/ Cerrell &
Associates
Ongoing/
as required
¶ Update Administrative Record
¶ Periodic updates on technical
studies.
¶Work plans and
reports
¶Web site
¶ Fact sheets
¶Mailing list
¶ Call in number
(661) 705-1444
(As required) US Army Corps
of Engineers
Ongoing/
as required
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Appendix A — Key Contacts
and DTSC’s Mandatory Mailing
List
Key Contacts:
Elected Officials
Congressman Howard McKeon
25th District, California
Field Representative: Linda Lambourne
District Office:
23929 W. Valencia Blvd., Suite 410
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 254-2111
Fax: (661) 254-2380
State Senator WM. J. “Pete” Knight
Field Representative: Patty Kelly
District Office:
25709 Rye Canyon Road, #105
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 294-8184
Fax: (661) 294-8188
State Assemblyman Keith Richman
District 38
Field Representative: Fred Trueblood
District Office:
10727 White Oak Ave., Suite 124
Granada Hills, CA 91344
Phone: (818) 368-3838
Fax: (818) 885 885-3307
Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich
Fifth District, County of Los Angeles
Planning Deputy: Paul Novak
869 Kenneth Hahn Hall of
Administration
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 974-5555
Fax: (213) 947-1010
Government Agency Contacts
Department of Toxic Substances
Control (DTSC)
1011 North Grandview Avenue
Glendale, CA 91201
Project Manager: Tony Espinosa
Phone: (818) 551-2948
Public Participation: Tim Chauvel
Phone: (714) 484-5487
Media Contact: Jeanne Garcia
Phone: (818) 551-2176
Department of Health Services (DHS)
District Engineer: Jeff O’Keefe
Phone: (213) 580-3181
Drinking Water Field Operations
1449 West Temple Street, Room 202
Los Angeles, CA 90026
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Larry Sievers, Project Manager
Eastern Santa Clarita Subbasin Study
911 Wilshire Boulevard
Los Angeles, TBD
Phone: (213) 452-3989
South Coast Air Quality Management
District (AQMD)
Phone: (909) 396-2000
Web site: www.aqmd.gov
Castaic Lake Water Agency
Steve McClean, Operations Engineer
27234 Bouquet Canyon Road
Santa Clarita, California 91350-2173
Phone: (661) 297-1610
Fax: (661) 297-1611
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Local Government
City of Santa Clarita
Lisa Hardy, Senior Planner
Phone: (661) 255-4330
23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 300
Santa Clarita, CA 91355-2196
Community Representatives
Connie Worden-Roberts, Community
Advisory Group (CAG) Chair
Phone: (661) 295-0006
Whittaker Corporation
Brain Kelleher, Kelleher & Associates
Phone: (408) 528-7719
DTSC’s Mandatory Mailing
List:
State Wide Listing
Mr. Jim Marxen, Chief, PP&E
DTSC,
P.O. Box 806,
Sacramento, CA 95812-0806
Ms. Diane Takvorian
Environmental Health Coalition
1717 Kettner Blvd., #100
San Diego, CA 92101
Environment California
107 9th
Street, Suite 601
Sacramento, CA 95814
Ms. Liz Allen
Sierra Club, 394 Blaisdell
Claremont, CA 91711
Ms. Jane Williams
California Community Against Toxic
P.O. Box 845,
Rosamond, CA 93560
Mr. Jose Kou, Permitting Chief,
DTSC, Region 3,
1011 North Grandview Avenue,
Glendale, CA 91201
Ms. Marilyn Underwood
Department of Health Services
Environmental Health Investigation
Branch,
1515 Clay Street, Suite 1700
Oakland, CA 94612
Ms. Vanessa Byrd
Environmental Justice Coordinator
DTSC,
8800 Cal Center Drive
Sacramento, CA 95814
Mr. Carlos Porras
Communities for a Better Environment
1611 Telegraph Avenue, Suite 450
Oakland, CA 94612
Ms. Ann Coombs
League of Women Voters
65 Avalon Drive
Los Altos, CA 94022
Ms. Gwendolyn Eng
Regional Representative,
U.S. EPA Region IX,
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mr. Bill Magavern
Sierra Club, 1414 K Street, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95814
Mr. Bradley Angel
Green Action,
One Hallidie Plaza, Ste. 760,
San Francisco, CA 94102
Greenpeace
75 Arkansas Street, Suite 1
San Francisco, CA 94107-2434
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DTSC’s Mailing List Continued:
Ms. Jeanne Garcia,
Public Information Officer,
DTSC,
1011 North Grandview Avenue,
Glendale, CA 91201
Ms. Jody Sparks
Toxic Assessment Group
P.O. Box 186
Stewart Point, CA 95480
Mr. Joe Lyou
California Environmental Rights
Alliance,
P.O. Box 116
El Segundo, CA 90245-0116
Mr. Chuck White
Waste Management Inc.
915 L. Street, #1430
Sacramento, CA 95814
Mr. Andre Amy, Duty Officer
DTSC – Region 3
1011 Grandview Avenue
Glendale, CA 91201
Ms. Sharon Fair, Branch Chief
School Property Evaluation and
Cleanup Division,
DTSC - Region 3
1011 Grandview Avenue,
Glendale, CA 91201
Ms. Randi Jorgensen
Public Participation Supervisor
DTSC – Region 3,
1011 Grandview Avenue,
Glendale, CA 91201
Mr. Guenther Moskat
Office of Legal Council/Planning
Analysis Env. Assessment,
P.O. Box 806,
Sacramento, CA 95812-0806
Ms. Kelly Moran
TDC Environmental
4020 Bayview Avenue
San Mateo, CA 94403
California Council for Environmental
& Economic Balance
Mr. Victor Weisser
100 Spear Street, #805
San Francisco, CA 94105
Triss Chesney, Unit Chief
School Property Evaluation & Cleanup
Division
DTSC – Region 4
5796 Corporate Avenue
Cypress, CA 90630
Ms. Mona Arteaga
Public Participation Supervisor
DTSC – Region 4
5796 Corporate Avenue
Cypress, CA 90630
Ms. Gloria Conti
Duty Officer
DTSC – Region 4
5796 Corporate Avenue
Cypress, CA 90630
RCRA Projects
Mr. Steve Armann
U.S. EPA Region IX,
75 Hawthorne Street,
San Francisco, CA 94105-3901
Los Angeles County
Ms. Maggie Ide
SCAG, 818 West 7th
Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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DTSC’s Mandatory Mailing List
Continued:
Mr. Herman Mulman
Seniors for Political Action
6255 Ben Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 90048
Directing Attorney
NAACP Legal Defense
1055 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1480
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Mr. Shahin Nourishad, Supervisor
L.A. County Fire Department
Site Mitigation Unit
5825 Rickenbacker Road
Commerce, CA 90043
Ms. Pang Mueller, Manager
Reclaim Administrator
South Coast Air Quality Management
District,
21865 East Copley Drive
Diamond Bar, CA 91765-4182
Dr. Paul Simon
L.A. County, Department of Health
Services,
313 N. Figueroa Street Room 127,
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Mr. Bill Piazza
LAUSD, 1449 S. San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Hon. Yvonne B. Burke
LA County Hall of Administration
500 W. Temple Street, Suite 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Ms. Miriam Simmons
Senior Deputy, Environmental Issues
LA County Hall of Administration
500 W. Temple Street, Suite 866
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Ms. Sharon Thomas
LAUSD,
335 S. Grand Avenue, Suite 702,
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Communities for Better Environment
5610 Pacific Boulevard, Suite 203
Huntington Park, CA 90255
Ms. Debra Mulligan
Community Coalition for Change
P.O. Box 59027
Los Angeles, CA 90059
Councilmember Ed Reyes
City of Los Angeles
200 N. Spring Street, Room 410
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Ms. Sharon Lowe
Office of Councilmember Reyes
200 N. Spring Street, Room 410
Los Angeles, CA 90012
County of Los Angeles
Environmental Health
5050 Commerce Dr.
Baldwin Park, CA 91706
Directing Attorney Legal Aid
Foundation of L.A.
8601 S. Broadway
Los Angeles, CA 90003
Mr. Bill Piazza
LAUSD
1449 S. San Pedro Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071
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Appendix B — Community Survey Results
Compiled by:
Tim Chauvel
Public Participation Specialist
Department of Toxic Substances Control
5796 Corporate Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630
Tel: (714) 484-5487, Fax: (714) 484-5329
E-mail: [emailprotected]
WHITTAKER-BERMITE
COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS
October 2003
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................. 22
TABLE 1: SUMMARY OF SURVEY RESULTS ..................................................................................... 23
2.0 SURVEY RESULTS.............................................................................................................................. 24
SURVEY QUESTION 1: HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE AREA?......................................... 24
SURVEY QUESTION 2: WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT LEVEL OF INTEREST IN THIS SITE? .......... 24
SURVEY QUESTION 3: DO YOU HAVE ANY SPECIFIC COMMENTS REGARDING THIS SITE? 24
3.1 PUBLIC COMMENT CONCERNING SITE CLEANUP ACTIVITIES...................................... 25
3.2 PUBLIC COMMENT CONCERNING HEALTH ........................................................................ 36
3.3 PUBLIC COMMENT RELATING TO COMMUNICATION ..................................................... 45
3.4 PUBLIC COMMENT RELATING TO LAND DEVELOPMENT………………………………49
3.5 NON WHITTAKER-BERMITE RELATED PUBLIC COMMENT ............................................ 54
SURVEY QUESTION 4: WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION?.. 56
SURVEY QUESTION 5: DO YOU CURRENTLY ATTEND PUBLIC MEETINGS RELATED TO THIS
SITE?............................................................................................................................................................ 56
SURVEY QUESTION 6: PLEASE INDICATE IF YOU HAVE VISITED ANY OF THE FOUR
INFORMATION REPOSITORIES THAT DOCUMENT SITE ACTIVITIES. ......................................... 56
SURVEY QUESTION 7: HAVE YOU HAD ANY CONTACT WITH LOCAL, STATE OR OTHER
OFFICIALS REGARDING THIS SITE? .................................................................................................... 57
SURVEY QUESTION 8: CAN YOU SUGGEST ANY OTHER PERSON OR GROUPS THAT MIGHT
BE INTERESTED IN RECEIVING INFORMATION ABOUT THIS SITE?............................................ 58
3.0 MAILING ADDRESS PROVIDED; NUMBER AND GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION OF SURVEY
RESPONSES................................................................................................................................................ 59
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LIST OF FIGURES Page
Figure 1: Site Map of the Whittaker-Bermite Facility………………………..…………22
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Summary of Community Survey Results..…………………………….………23
Table 2: Question 7 – Public Indicated contact with the following officials……………57
Table 3: Question 8 – Public recommended contacting the following………………….58
APPENDIX
Appendix A: 2003 Whittaker-Bermite Community Survey Questionnaire.…………….60
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1.0 Introduction
The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) supervised the mailing of a
community survey to approximately 5,000 residents living within a minimum 1.5 mile
radius of the Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility located at 22116 West Soledad
Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, California (see map below). The survey was mailed and also
posted on the DTSC Website at www.dtsc.ca.gov on July 18, 2003, and a news article
discussing the survey was published in the local Santa Clarita Signal Newspaper on
Saturday July 19, 2003.
The survey was undertaken in order to document the public’s comments and concerns
regarding DTSC’s cleanup activities taking place at the Whittaker-Bermite Facility. The
survey results will also be used to revise a 1996 DTSC Public Participation Plan and
community outreach strategy for 2004.
¶ A total of 660 community surveys were returned by members of the public living
within 17 geographical locations (see page 41 for location of returned survey
responses). Four surveys were returned via the Internet, five surveys were
received by fax.
There are 3 main sections, and 13 subsections to this report. Where relevant, each
section begins with the original survey question followed by the public’s unabridged
written comment.
¶ Unabridged public comment are compiled under specific concerns, and then
sorted alphabetically by mailing location.
¶ Name and mailing address details are omitted in order to protect the identity of
survey respondents.
Copies of the community survey results are available at local information repositories as
listed in Appendix E, page 66).
Figure 1: Site Map of the Whittaker-Bermite Facility
Note: Map not to scale
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Table 1: Summary of Survey Results Survey Results No. of Responses Percentage Page
Number of Survey Responses Received 660 13% 6
How Long Have You Lived In The Area 6
0-5 years 160 24% -
6-12 years 163 25% -
13-20 years 176 28% -
21 or more years 148 23% -
Level of Public Interest 6
High 314 48% -
Moderate 218 33% -
Low 52 8% -
No Interest 73 11% -
Specific Public Comment
Public comment concerning site cleanup
activities 146 22% 7
Public comment concerning health 121 18% 18
Public comment concerning communication 80 12% 26
Public comment concerning development 61 9% 31
Non-Whittaker-Bermite public comment 4 1% 35
What Is The Best Way To Provide You With Information 36
Fact Sheets 532 81% -
Public Meetings 96 15% -
E-mail/Website 79 12% -
Mail 50 8% -
Newspapers/TV 31 5% -
Phone 4 1% -
Fax 2 .5% -
Do You Currently Attend Public Meetings 36
Yes 71 11% -
No 536 81% -
Not aware public meetings take place 13 2% -
Number of People Who Have Visited Information Repositories 36
Valencia Branch Public Library 109 17% -
Canyon Country Branch Library 80 12% -
City of Santa Clarita Planning Department 63 10% -
Bermite Facility 18 3% -
Have You Had Contact With State or Local Officials 37
Yes 66 10% -
No 543 83% -
NOTE: Table does not show complete list of survey results.
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2.0 Survey Results
Number of Survey Responses Received = 660 (13%)
Note: An approximate total of 5,000 community surveys were mailed out to the
public. Six hundred and sixty (13%) of the surveys were completed and returned
directly back to DTSC.
Disclaimer: The self-selected group of people who responded to the community
survey may not be statistically representative of the total population of residents living
in the Santa Clarita Valley due to the fact that only a small percentage of the total
population was surveyed.
Note: n = number of responses. % = percentage calculated from 658 surveys return
mailed by the public. All percentages were rounded to the nearest decimal point.
Survey Question 1: How long have you lived in the area?
Public Response:
0 – 5 years 6 – 12 years 13 – 20 years 21 or more years
24 % (n=160) 25 % (n=163) 27 % (n=176) 23 % (n=149)
Survey Question 2: What is your current level of interest in
this site?
Public Response:
No
Interest
Low
Interest
Moderate
Interest
High
Interest
11 % (n=73) 8 % (n=52) 33 % (n=219) 48 % (n=314)
Survey Question 3: Do you have any specific comments regarding this
site?
Public response:
Total number of responses to Question 3 No response to Question 3
62 % (n=411) 38 % (n=247)
Note: The following public comments are unabridged direct quotes. Many survey
respondents wrote specific comments which have been reprinted as they were
originally sent to DTSC. Comments are categorized into specific areas of concern.
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3.1 Public comment concerning site cleanup activities
Number of Survey Responses 22 % (n=146)
Note: All public comments are unabridged direct quotes.
Public response from Acton:
1. Interested in finding out which areas were furnished water from contaminated
wells. [Acton]
Public response from Beverly Hills:
2. Please forward…any updates on the status of the cleanup. We are very interested
to hear the results of any testing and if contamination is migrating. [Beverly
Hills]
Public response from Canyon Country:
3. Clean it up and test before any building. [Canyon Country]
4. We were not aware of this issue since we recently moved to Santa Clarita. Now
that we are aware we would like to know more about how it will be cleaned up,
how long it will take and any dangers. [Canyon Country]
5. Please clean up site! [Canyon Country]
6. We moved out here to a valley with less pollution than Los Angeles or the San
Fernando Valley in order to raise our family in a healthier environment. My
husband stated that he used to have a buddy that worked at Bermite tell him the
area was full of “chemicals and debris” and therefore, the future growth in the
surrounding area would be impossible to clean up. As a long-term resident, I
don’t see this area being considered healthy enough to accommodate businesses,
housing or any other human related project. [Canyon Country]
7. Site is an eyesore. Can’t it be fenced visually? [Canyon Country]
8. Whittaker-Bermite should be made to cleanup this area. [Canyon Country]
9. We would like it cleaned up. Wouldn’t everyone?[Canyon Country]
10. Single most important issue facing Santa Clarita so far, there has been much talk,
study and maneuvering compared to cleanup. There is room for cleanup action to
take place in the legal and responsibility avoidance action that is currently taking
place. [Canyon Country]
11. What does the cleanup effort entail? [Canyon Country]
12. The perchlorate problem needs to be removed completely. [Canyon Country]
13. The loss of the five wells that have been shut down to date has significantly
reduced the water pressure to the homes in my area. [Canyon Country]
14. First off, we know for a fact that this site is filled with toxic substances and why
they hell it is taking so long to do something about this is a joke. Whittaker-
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
-Bermite facility worked for or was contracted by the government and if at some
time in the past that government had some control with or over this facility, then
the government should come up with cleanup funds. But, get the show on the
road. [Canyon Country]
15. Don’t let Whittaker sell this facility without paying for the clean-up. Too often,
Companies’ pull money out and leave the tax payers with the clean-up. [Canyon
Country]
16. I am concerned about toxicity and safety as follows: air pollution now and
during clean-up/abatement, water supply due to toxins in the ground. [Canyon
Country]
17. I want this site cleaned up-toxic free, so via Princessa can go through as planned.
[Canyon Country]
18. Let’s fix it and move on. [Canyon Country]
19. It is alarming to learn that additional wells had to be shut down due to
contamination. I live less than five miles east of this location and I am concerned.
[Canyon Country]
20. I hope it gets cleaned up and becomes usable and safe. [Canyon Country]
21. According to your letter, the DTSC detected toxic levels of perchlorate in 5 wells
between 1997 and 2002. These wells were shut down. Why hasn’t the DTSC
enforced their mandate to ensure that Whittaker Corp. cleans up the site? Why do
you need a remedial investigation? Since you already determined that the toxic
levels were high enough to shut down the wells? [Canyon Country]
Public response from Castaic:
22. I would like to know all findings upon completing the investigation. [Castaic]
Public response from Las Vegas:
23. I am concerned that no compromise be made on thoroughness of soil remediation,
e.g. depleted uranium in OU-3. (2) Santa Clarita has a long history of neglect by
AQMD in terms of dust migration measures relating to construction. SCV also
has a long history of severe respiration illness when mass grading is occurring.
AQMD response time is typically 30 days AFTER incidents – e.g. no enforcement.
(3) Remediation plans need to include funds to pay for independent third party
personnel (e.g. not AQMD or City) to enforce dust control and have power to stop
construction. [Las Vegas]
Public response from Newhall:
24. Pressure Whittaker-Bermite to start cleanup or sell to some company that will.
[Newhall]
25. We would like to have the water contamination cleaned up so that we would have
use of the wells that have been shut down. [Newhall]
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
26. I would like to see the site cleaned up and developed – it’s been far too long.
[Newhall]
27. Site must be cleaned up. [Newhall]
27. Non-residential use due to risk of toxicity after cleanup and liabilities. [Newhall]
28. Get all the OU’s cleaned up as quickly as possible. Cooperate with the water
companies. Santa Clarita to minimize costs to city and local residents. [Newhall]
29. We are on wells in the canyon directly below you. I remember seeing strange
smoke/clouds going up from Bermite when something got away from them. My
husband built some bunkers on the site to protect workers when things exploded.
So I know there’s a lot of stuff up there. [Newhall]
30. The problem of interest appears to be perchlorate. The danger is problematical,
but activist try to set the danger level at the minimum detectable. Obviously it is a
state responsibility to establish danger levels based on observable, statistically
valid observation. If real danger levels are exceeded it is state responsibility to
clean it up as soon as possible. If Whittaker is ultimately responsible, sue for
monetary recovery. But do the right thing now and cut off the political
maneuvering. [Newhall]
31. Request that all federal requirements for cleanup be complete before any soil
movement or building takes place. [Newhall]
32. Stop Delaying-Get it done! [Newhall]
33. It should not have taken so long to address the problems. Who has avoided the
issues?[Newhall]
34. Please cleanup our water supply ASAP. [Newhall]
35. Has perchlorate traveled east of site? Have you tested wells on Sierra Highway?
[Newhall]
36. Absolutely needs to be cleaned, our water is at risk. Problem has been unchecked
for too many years. [Newhall]
37. Yes: I want it all cleaned to residential use standards as soon as possible
(ground) and I want the water cleaned up and made usable ASAP. [Newhall]
38. I am very concerned about groundwater pollution. I don’t think the water
agencies are telling the truth or disclosing the extent and full impacts of the
pollution. [Newhall]
39. Where will the removed soil go? How will it be treated? [Newhall]
40. Frankly, I think too many people speak “double speak” on such issues as clean
ups. I have concerns about whether this site can actually, for real, be made safe.
Is the technology such that something can really be done to guarantee that the
groundwater, specifically, and the environment, generally can be reversed. What
test would one look too validate any cleanup actions? I own horses. I take great
pains to make sure nothing I do with them adversely affects my surrounding environment, including the oak tree on my property. It is not easy and not
necessarily cheap. Would hate to see public money used to cleanup the site only
to have nothing, really to show for the effort and expense. [Newhall]
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
41. Chemical contaminant residues remain in the area, when will it completely be
removed? Are there possible contaminants still in the water supplies and
ground? Is the water, any part of it, contaminated? What can we do to abate
nearby or present residues? Please keep me informed with the cleanup project.
[Newhall]
42. Yes, I am concerned about contaminated groundwater as well as clean up
procedures of the site. Will “clean up” cause toxins to be released in the air and
add to toxic exposure? Will there be an independent entity overseeing this
project to safeguard against falsifying information for $?[Newhall]
43. I’m very concerned about the environment. [Newhall]
Public response from Palmdale:
44. Site is so central to our town plans for cleanup and use of development is of
interest to so many of our citizens. We want to know what manor of cleanup is to
be used, how successful it is expected to be, how long it may take, cost, who can
be expected to pay?[Palmdale]
Public response from Santa Clarita:
45. How can the land be built on if it is not cleaned up? [Santa Clarita]
46. Water contamination is key issue. [Santa Clarita]
47. Enough talk and headlines let’s take care of this site…if there’s a problem – let’s
deal with it! We all love Santa Clarita, if there’s a “cancer in out body” find a
doctor! [Santa Clarita]
48. Please get the area cleaned up! [Santa Clarita]
49. We are happy to have had the military explosives and solid rocket fuel, [it is]
part of the cost of running a war…All citizens should pay for clean up. The
Federal Government should pay the total cost. That is you and me!! [Santa
Clarita]
50. I do wish to see the cleanup go in a prompt and safe way. [Santa Clarita]
51. I hope Bermite starts cleanup and quits dragging feet. They polluted this site,
they abandoned site and did not do any real clean up, and it's time they acted
responsibly! [Santa Clarita]
52. How hard is it to test soil and make clean-up? Why has this been so difficult?
[Santa Clarita]
53. Who will perform cleanup? What involvement does the City Gov. have? [Santa
Clarita]
54. I don’t understand why it is taking so long to have this cleaned up. [Santa Clarita]
55. Site is close to our home. One concern is dust from any construction in that
area. Water toxicity already shown what affects is already happening from
continuing percolation, especially if homes are built. [Santa Clarita]
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
56. We would like to see this site cleaned up ASAP! [Santa Clarita]
57. Clean it up so it stops affecting our water and most likely air. [Santa Clarita]
58. I believe the whole site has to be cleaned before any building occurs. If the
entire site is not cleaned people may move into this area and become
contaminated while other areas of the site are being cleaned. This would cause
possible cancers and other diseases that would result in who knows what-loss of
life, property, etc. You then would have lawsuit claims etc. Clean it up at first
for better results later down the line. [Santa Clarita]
59. Yes, I believe the site should be cleaned up. But, I do not believe it will ever be
safe for homes or businesses to be developed on it. Also, I am concerned that the
clean up will expose other areas to toxic contamination. [Santa Clarita]
60. 1) I would like to know how expensive the cleanup would be and will we as
taxpayers be expected to pay for it/or be charged for it, or the developers, or
whoever made the mess in the first place? 2 ) Also- will all of the contaminants
be able to be cleaned up? 3) Are the wells- water supplies expected to be used in
the future? 4) Prior to the shut downs of wells in 1997, were we being pumped
this contaminated water in our homes?[Santa Clarita]
61. Why did this take so long?[Santa Clarita]
62. Concerned that the chemicals used at the site have or will contaminate our land
and water. [Santa Clarita]
63. Whittaker Corporation should be held completely liable for all the environmental
damage that they have caused to the community. The DTSC has the duty to
pursue them until the environment is totally cleaned up and restored to its
natural state. The property should be converted into a regional park. [Santa
Clarita]
64. I do not support any roads or construction until total cleanup is completed. I am
very concerned about water quality and supply. [Santa Clarita]
65. How long to clean it up? [Santa Clarita]
66. I feel strongly that both Whittaker and the US Govt. share responsibility for the
problem and therefore should be held accountable for the cleanup and that they
should stop dragging their feet and get it done! [Santa Clarita]
67. Have we detected any perchlorate before shut down of the wells? [Santa
Clarita]
68. Just get it cleaned up. [Santa Clarita]
69. Clean up the wells but do not build on the property. [Santa Clarita]
70. It should have been cleaned up years ago! [Santa Clarita]
71. The site should be completely cleaned by the former owner. [Santa Clarita]
72. Water reserves are very important to protect. [Santa Clarita]
73. Do not allow any (including roads) development until the entire site is clean-no partial development. I understand that developers need money from sales to
fund- cleanup-that should not and is not something the community needs to bear
(my back yard borders Bermite). [Santa Clarita]
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
74. Would the cleanup make the closed wells useful? [Santa Clarita]
75. How will the dust created during soil treatment and subsequent construction
activities be contained so adjacent homes and business are not impacted?[Santa
Clarita]
76. Clean it up-soil, water, etc. [Santa Clarita]
77. Is there a danger of explosions? Are contaminates airborne – dust? [Santa
Clarita]
78. I was not aware of all the contamination that this plant had caused? [Santa
Clarita]
79. The site needed to be cleaned up. Unfortunately it has probably affected the
water supply underground. I ride the Metrolink and hope Santa Clarita Station
will remain. [Santa Clarita]
80. Do not want to spend the money on this clean up. Land should be considered
unusable. [Santa Clarita]
81. When will site be cleaned up completely?[Santa Clarita]
82. From reading the cover letter I have the understanding that the cleanup itself
will cause a risk. What is that risk and can it be avoided? What areas are now
being affected and what areas will be further affected? I would like a more
comprehensive preferably plat map of the area. [Santa Clarita]
83. I would like to attend for educational purposes on some of the cleanup activities.
I am a Geologist recently started GEO-X. I also have military experience once
and know about ordinance, so I was interested in this site and its cleanup
techniques. [Santa Clarita]
84. The Whittaker-Bermite must be properly clean; they should follow the Federal,
State policies to assure this area is clean of all the chemicals that maybe in the
ground. [Santa Clarita]
85. I am very concerned about the thorough cleanup of this site as well as current
and future contamination of water and the environment. [Santa Clarita]
86. Bermite and their customers made the mess – and they should clean it up
(“simple kindergarten logic!!”). [Santa Clarita]
87. We are very concerned that the extent of the ground water pollution and its
impacts on the local water pollution and its impacts on the local water supply is
not being disclosed to the public by the water agencies. They are not disclosing
correct information to the City and County. [Santa Clarita]
88. (1) Is it affecting the water supply of Circle J. Ranch? (2) Will cleanup cause air
born toxins? (3) What has been the activity of the injection wells over the years?
(4) What happens when the injection wells close down? (5) What about previous
toxic burn site operations from Lockheed on the Bermite site?[Santa Clarita]
89. Whittaker-Bermite should clean any toxic waste it has deposited in the soil.
[Santa Clarita]
90. I think the road crossing the Valley needs to be completed as soon as possible to
help with the traffic problems. [Santa Clarita]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
91. Clean it up before doing anything. Not houses and everything is overcrowded
with cars and people. Build a mall. [Santa Clarita]
92. Clean up of this site should have been done years ago. Our water supply is in
danger of permanent contamination. The government should step up and take
control. [Santa Clarita]
93. If there’s contamination, it definitely has to be cleaned up. [Santa Clarita]
Public response from Saugus:
94. Some of us live adjacent to the site. Accordingly, please keep cleanup activities
quite from 6 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Some of the preliminary investigations have been
late at night or early morning – and were noisy. Also – keep the site visually
appealing during cleanup, i.e. cleanup trucks, no dust, fences, roads, etc.
[Saugus]
95. No cleanup, no build. [Saugus]
96. Complete clean-up must be done now. The wells that are contaminated must be
looked at closer. [Saugus]
97. I have known about the problem for a long time, it’s time to clean it up. [Saugus]
98. I am concerned that the cleanup may prove a greater of contamination-than in
currently present. [Saugus]
99. Specific concerns are how the water quality can be improved from just cleanup?
[Saugus]
100. Please do not allow corners to be cut, deals to be made, or concessions be
applied that would effect the full and complete remedial investigation and
cleanup of the site. [Saugus]
101. Due to the Santa Susana problem we need immediate disclosure and solutions to
this problem. [Saugus]
102. The ground and water needs to be cleaned up. [Saugus]
103. No comments for now. Just have it cleaned ASAP. [Saugus]
104. I think it is important to clean the entire Bermite site before any construction or
building projects begin. I am also concerned about well water contamination
near the site. [Saugus]
105. The landowner and/or Whittaker Corporation should pay for the cleanup not the
City of Santa Clarita or the State of California. [Saugus]
Public response from Stevenson Ranch:
106. Please keep me advised as to the cleanup and current activities. [Stevenson-
Ranch]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
Public response from Torrance:
107. How does proposed clean-up of site in Santa Clarita affect Torrance?
[Torrance]
Public response from Valencia:
108. [Site] Needs cleanup. [Valencia]
109. Seriously interested in getting this site cleaned up! [Valencia]
110. Bermite made munitions for the federal government. The government needs to
put this as a super site and fund the cleanup. [Valencia]
111. I believe that the sole responsibility for cleaning this property should be that of
Whittaker-Bermite. The citizens nor the City of Santa Clarita should spend not
one dime towards the cleaning of that property. [Valencia]
112. I am the Superintendent of Newhall School District, much of the property is in
the district. Obviously we have concerns about cleanup as we anticipate a
school site in the project if it is developed. We would want to know how this
process dovetails with the DTSC requirements for school sites. [Valencia]
113. BACKGROUND: As a long time resident and someone who has been and
continues to be very involved in community and civic issues, I have followed the
happenings at the Whittaker-Bermite site over the years with great interest.
As a new resident in the 1970’s, I was aware of frequent accidents and problems
at the Bermite plant. Explosions and news of injuries were often reported in the
local paper. Orange colored skies (which we later learned was magnesium and
other explosives) occurred regularly.
Later, laws changed to preclude the three Bs (Blow, Burn or Bury) the
contaminants. These had been prior methods of disposal – all of which resulted
in leaving toxic residue in the soil. It was then that I asked by our Congressman
Barry Goldwater Jr. to participate in discussions designed to find another
method for disposing of the toxic materials which had been temporarily stored in
55 gallon drums throughout the site. No longer could the old methods of disposal
be used, and the sending of the materials to Camp Irvine was ended.
Finally, after months of research, a facility in South Carolina was identified that
could accept the barreled waste. Thousands of barrels were loaded onto railroad
cargo carriers and shipped to the East Coast. During the period of search for a
solution, the armed services personnel and Bermite management discussed
candidly that they thought it was a good thing they only had to worry about shipments of the barreled waste. They caustically commented they “sure as hell”
didn’t know where all the toxins were because they were buried everywhere!
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities from Valencia continued:
Comment 113 Continued: Other potential buyers who purported to have an
interest in the clean-up and development of this critical site (such as RFI) never
demonstrated either the understanding of the complexity or the significant cost
associated with the clean-up. In the vernacular much of what was proposed was
merely “smoke and mirrors.” The desire to clean-up operable units and build on
them as each was cleaned was correctly viewed by the City Council as
potentially dangerous to the Valley and the concept of DS 12 may indeed have
saved the City.
As the site clean-up languished, and further harmful contaminants were
discovered (such as the perchlorates, a few citizens and I met with DTSC
officials and elected state officials to inquire about the formation of a Citizens
Advisory Committee [CAG]. Numerous persons had expressed grave interest and
concerns about learning more about the site. After meeting with DTSC in the
Glendale Office, a formation committee was convened. The group selected me to
chair the committee. We have now met for nearly four years.
PERCHLORATE DISCOVERY: Adding to the totality of concerns about the
Whittaker-Bermite facility was the discovery of perchlorate in the production
wells in 1997. Subsequently 5 production wells have been closed. While these
wells which are primarily used in times of drought, they are extremely important
to the residents throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. The Water Agencies became
understandingly alarmed and went to Whittaker and Bermite to immediately
address this extremely important subject. Neither did anything to solve the
problem! The water agencies had to raise the funds and to seek support from the
Army Corps of Engineers through our Congressman H.P. McKeon. Whittaker
and Bermite should have immediately stepped up to the issue, but did not. This
became a factor that later precipitated the Unilateral order issued by the
Department of Toxic Substances Control to Whittaker, and very belatedly did
Whittaker become involved in helping solve the threatening problems at this site.
The search for the appropriate technology is still under study and the recent
discovery of a hot spot with 58,000 ppb, when the current allowable is 4ppb of
perchlorate has once again alarmed the community.
REQUEST FOR APPROPRIATE AND SWIFT ACTION: It is my fervent request
that immediate clean-up of the perchlorate be undertaken. It is my understanding
that ion exchange methodology similar to, but advanced in its application at the
San Dimas site can be implemented. I urge the process go forward with all due
haste and utilizing the very best technology. Insurance payments from Whittaker
must be applied as soon as possible, even if in the future the Federal
Government steps up to assume some or all of the responsibility. While other
contaminants and unexploded ordnance exist on the site, it is the general belief
that there is readily accepted and well documented procedures for clean-up of
all these materials.
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
Comment 113 Continued: The scope of the clean-up must not be minimized.
Nearly one thousand acres (996) comprise this location in the very center of the
City. Hopefully, once the problems have been adequately addressed it can be
brought into a significant economic advantage for the City of Santa Clarita.
The CAG looks forward with cautious optimism to a well thought out,
comprehensive development plan that the Cherokee Company who are in the
process of due diligence. It would be our hope that such a plan will rid the area
of all contaminants while contributing to the economic vitality of the area and
preserve much of the beauty of this challenging site [Valencia]
114. The site must be cleaned sooner rather than later. [Valencia]
115. I have concerns over water quality as I live close to the site. [Valencia]
116. How will the site be cleaned up? Who will be responsible for the clean up?
How will ensure that contamination will not leak into existing homeowner
property? [Valencia]
117. For the sake of the Santa Clarita Community the area needs to be cleaned up.
[Valencia]
Public response from Van Nuys:
118. Tests contaminated wells for acid levels and perchlorate daily. Remove depleted
uranium shells that are buried on site. [Initiate] mandatory [Dept.] of Fish and
Game tests for groundwater as well as well water. Contaminated soils to be
hauled off, not treated on site. [Van Nuys]
Public response – no name or address given:
119. Clean up the mess! [no address given]
120. What if anything is going to be done with the… glass asbestos buried east of the
San Fernando Road? Water that may have chemicals is being drained through
the Circle J Ranch home area from the South East section of the Whittaker-
Bermite property. What is going on with all of the test drilling in the area? How
soon will a public road cross this property via Princessa? [no address given]
121. Cleanup up the contaminants in the groundwater but do not cleanup the site.
[no address given]122. Requires extensive cleanup immediately. [no address given]
123. The water contamination problem must be rectified with complete cleaning of the
site. [no address given] 124. The site needs to be cleaned up immediately! This is long over due. [no address
given]
125. I’m glad action is being taken at Bermite and that they are being held
accountable. [no address given]
126. I would like it cleaned up and developed responsibly. [no address given]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to cleanup activities continued:
127. Whittaker-Bermite should clean up the ground they contaminated. [no address]
128. The proposed road starting at Via Princessa will become another speedway as it
is throughout Santa Clarita. It’s a speed zone now. It will become a major
headache. [no address given]
129. Interfering with completion of Cross Valley connector of Via Princess to Wiley
Canyon, the most important one connecting Canyon Country to Valencia. [no
address given]
130. Please remove and cleanup toxins safely. Do not let cleanup workers get
harmed in the process. Thank you. [no address given]
131. (1) Regarding cleanup, can perchlorate become dangerous when airborne? (2)
What time will cleanup begin and end each day? (3) Will all the Bermite be
cleaned prior to any construction? (4) Will H2O trucks keep site damp to prevent
excess dust? [no address given]
132. More concerned about groundwater contamination then the ability to build more
houses. [no address given]
133. As a resident in the area – I’m concerned about groundwater! [no address
given]
134. It must be cleaned up thoroughly, completely and as quickly as possible. [no
address given]
135. Are you still considering closing the Santa Clarita Metrolink Station? I ride
everyday and have been for the past 10 years. This is a vital and beautiful
station. No other compares. [no address given]
136. I do agree it should be cleaned up. [no address given]
137. Does this perchlorate contamination affect any of the water supplies from
Newhall, Saugus, or Valencia. [no address given]
138. I was told by some folks what really went on there. Stuff thrown down a well and
covered up. [no address given]
139. This problem has been pushed around the table long enough. Time to solve the
problem. [no address given]
140. Do what’s needed to protect the water supply, but don’t spend/waste money
doing unnecessary actions. Most cleanups waste a lot of money and provide little
results. Spend more time preventing leaks. [no address given]
141. It should be detoxified ASAP. [no address given]
142. Just get it done! [no address given]
143. Unaware of site and the ramifications on cleanup. [no address given]
144. It is most important that the clean up take place promptly and thoroughly as the
safety of our water is very important to the citizens of this community. [no
address given]
145. Bermite must take full responsibility for the clean up of this site. Proof that water has not or will be contaminated must be provided. [no address given]
146. Less talking and more action! [no address given]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
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3.2 Public comment concerning health
Number of Public Responses 18 % (n=121)
Note: All public comments are unabridged direct quotes.
Public response from Agua Dulce:
1. Lots of people live in this area more by the minute. I am concerned with the air
my children breathe. Point blank. [Agua Dulce]
Public response from Canyon Country:
2. It would be very interesting to know what long/short term medical/skin
conditions these chemicals have been linked to. As it is interesting that my
daughter, now 23, did not experience the Vitiligo condition she has until moving
to the area in 1985 when she was five, due to the fact that we cannot trace this
condition in any family member on either side of the gene pool. So it is that we
would be quite interested in the studies and any other data compiled about the
site and its chemicals! [Canyon Country]
3. Please keep me updated concerning this matter. I am very much interested and
concerned if there are any risks regarding health issues in the area. [Canyon
country]
4. Hopefully residents of Santa Clarita do not have contaminated water supply.
[Canyon Country]
5. Are we being exposed to toxic chemicals?? If so, what are the anticipated
affects they will have on us and our children?? [Canyon Country]
6. Health Risks? Is tap water safe to drink?[Canyon Country]
7. Health concerns=5 people in this tract had thyroid abnormalities. Living here
between 1985-2000, that we have knowledge of. [Terri Drive, Canyon Country]
8. Anytime there is an issue with respect to human health I am very concerned. In this case the site is close to my home as well as to a new high school that is
being built. I want to be sure that my family and our community (esp. children)
are safe drinking the water provided to them and not exposed to toxins. The
same is true with the air they breathe, etc. [Canyon Country]
9. I have recently become aware of seven (7) neighbors diagnosed with cancer
(one has deceased). Has a study/investigation been done on this?[Emmett
Road, Canyon Country]
10. Would this toxic waste have anything to do with infertility? Has it been proven
or suspected in damaging ovum in women or cause deformities in
children?[Canyon Country]
11. Is there any chance this site has spread to Golden Triangle? The new sports
center for children. [Canyon Country]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to health continued:
12. Yes, my family and I live within 1.5 miles of the site. My concern is twofold: 1)
the amount of toxic substances deposited over a period of fifty years in the
ground (water table) and if we have been affected over the years we have lived
here? 2) possibility of hundreds of homes built on that site and the effects on
new families. [Canyon Country]
13. My wife developed a severe case of graves disease (i.e. thyroid problem) about
3-4 years (1983-1984 timeframe) after moving to Canyon County. Was the
water supply in that area affected by the situation at the Whittaker-Bermite site?
[Hideaway Avenue, Canyon Country]
14. We live to the east of the site, and I don’t know whether any of our water comes
from the wells with elevated perchlorate wells. I’m wondering whether there
may be a link from that to my hypothyroid condition diagnosed in 1997. [N.
Rainbow Glen Drive, Canyon Country]
15. First of all…What is perchlorate and how can it affect us as humans?? Also, at
the rate this valley is growing, my concern is my children and the future. I have
small children and obviously we are building and have plans of building new
schools, businesses etc. I am worried that some hot shot will say yes it’s cleaned
up when in fact you really can’t clean up 100%. I am worried... I want these
things done right so my children’s future isn’t jeopardized. [Canyon Country]
16. I would like to know if it is affecting the groundwater that my family may be
drinking? [Flo Lane, Canyon Country]
17. I have lived in this valley for 38 years. I can remember when Bermite was very
active and we could see fireworks in the sky. I am concerned that I have been
drinking water from these wells all those years and hope that there will be no
side effects. [Ridge View Dive., Canyon Country]
18. Any and all necessary clean up steps should be taken as a public health
precaution for our growing community. [Canyon Country]
19. I would like to know current perchlorate levels in Santa Clarita public water
supply? [Canyon Country]
20. What are the health risks? What are the environmental impacts?[Canyon
Country]
21. I’m worried about the safety of my kids and the water and soil where I live.
[Emmett Road, Canyon Country]
22. In addition to the health risks that I and my family may have been exposed to
due to the negligence of the Whittaker Corporation. [Canyon Country]
23. I would like to know specifically what neighborhoods would have been affected
by this water contamination and what effect using the water might have on
individuals. [Canyon Country]
24. Is perchlorate being found in my tap water? What is the health affects known to be caused by perchlorate? What is the health affects on children? What is
being done to protect my family from consuming perchlorate? [Canyon
Country]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to health continued:
25. Concerned about toxic substances being blown toward our home. [Canyon
Country]
26. I would like to know how it affects our drinking water and if we should do
something to further clean our water up at our own expense. I would like to
know if it is causing any health hazard what-so-ever. [Canyon Country]
27. Very interested in findings and possible hazards to the community. [Canyon
Country]
28. I’m concerned about my health. Is there any impact on people living here from
1993? If there is a potential health impact, this should be measured in those
people. [Canyon Country]
29. This has been a community subject for many years now. I hope that people don’t
have to start getting sick before it gets taken care of. With the rapid growth of
our City it concerns me that people will be buying houses on contaminated land
due to lack of thorough ground studies. [Canyon Country]
Public response from Newhall:
30. Being a NCWD customer, I’m concerned about perchlorate in water. Probably
already consumed [perchlorate] for a number of years, all family included.
[Quigley Canyon Road, Newhall]
31. I have a well for an orchard and horses. If any water is not safe, I want to know.
[Quigley Cyn. Rd., Newhall]
32. We live just south of the site in Placerita Canyon and have for almost 30 years.
We have just had a thyroid related illness diagnosis which may be related to the
contamination. [Placerita Cyn Road, Newhall]
33. My husband passed away from non-Hodgkin’s at home last year. Cancer from
continued exposure to toxins is a major concern. [Azure Field, Newhall]
34. I am very concerned that the levels of perchlorate will continue to rise and
spread to other pumping locations. [Newhall]
35. What are my health risks? [Newhall]
36. Risk to human health and environment. [Newhall]
37. My son just died August 6, 2002, from testicular cancer. I have been informed
that testicular cancer is being connected in some form from the San Fernando
area and Santa Clarita dump site. [Rainbow Glen Drive, Newhall]
38. I was a vender at Saugus Swap Meet from 1987 – 1996,…every Sunday and
during the week. I have skin cancer (Basal Cell) and would like to know if this is
the cause. Also, I lived in the area near blasting from Bermite. [Avenue of the
Oaks, Newhall]
39. Does it affect drinking water in the area? [Newhall]
40. I have 3 sons and would like to know that their health is not being jeopardized.
[Newhall]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to health continued:
Public response from Redondo Beach:
41. Clean it up of cancer causing chemicals etc. [Redondo Beach]
Public response from Santa Clarita:
42. 1) My daughter is going to the Master’s College and I would like to know what
implications the toxic problems have on her residing there. Would it be better
for her to live at home rather than on campus? Has it affected their H20 or
environment in other ways? 2) Also, what impact does this have on my residing
and living here in my home? [Ave. of the Oaks, Santa Clarita]
43. We live in the 2nd
house adjacent to this site. (1) Need further information on
the possible toxic vent pipes upwind, as we are located downwind. (2) Many
dirt bike riders frequent the area, load motorcycles in evening and weekends.
(3) Is this property secure? (4) Concerned about dry toxic dirt drifting
downwind, especially if area will be developed by a residential home developer.
[Santa Clarita]
44. Living in this area, are resident’s health at risk? How much at risk? We are
very concerned with the effects of this site now and in the future years. How are
residents affected? Are there ways that we can avoid any possible health risks
without moving? [Santa Clarita]
45. How hazardous is the cleanup going to be to local residents? Will there be any
airborne hazards? Will debris be spilled on any roads due to trucking material
away? There are schools in the area, how much at risk will the students be as a
result of the cleanup operation? [Santa Clarita]
46. How is this going to affect the Health of my neighbors? We are also concerned
about our water supply. The site is very close to us and the new High School.
[Santa Clarita]
47. Yes, I am concerned about the current toxic air/water challenges we have here
in SCV. My oldest daughter recently underwent surgery for the removal of a
tumor attached to the outside of one of her ovaries. Many Valencia High
School students are currently under care and receiving cancer treatment. Some
families have reported large numbers of epilepsy in Castaic. I believe that
moving the soil at all will be hazardous. [Santa Clarita]
48. I’m very concerned that contaminants will pollute our water or possibly affect
the health of our citizens, particularly children. [Santa Clarita] I am concerned
about toxic substances behind our house and infection into ground water
supplies. Are we in danger? [Santa Clarita]
49. Mr. … has thyroid and autoimmune disease (IBM) since living in his house since 1991. We must know if there is any correlation between the two. [Circle J
Ranch Road, Santa Clarita]
50. Will clean up activities prevent hazardous materials from affecting nearby
houses and schools? I assume no airborne pollutants will be released? Is that
correct? My children attend a nearby Elementary School. [Santa Clarita]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to health continued:
51. Our property is adjacent to the Whittaker site, and we are very concerned about
any risk from chemicals on the site. We were unaware of the shut-down of the 5
wells. Were these wells serving our area?[Santa Clarita]
52. We are concerned over the health and property value issues. [Santa Clarita]
53. Need to know specific exposures to area and possible effects on people living
within certain areas of toxics. [Santa Clarita]
54. Let’s clean it up? I live ¼ mile from this site, so the impact of this polluted site
to my family is real and considered dangerous to our well being. [Santa
Clarita]
55. You are opening up a “Pandora’s box” you have no idea what the ramifications
will be in the next ten years. You are exposing thousands of people including
hundreds of children to potential health threats that most likely will take years
to show the effects. But as usual it all comes down to money. None of you live
here so those are not your concerns. If you did you to would want to leave these
hills alone and not take any chances. [Santa Clarita]
56. This place is polluting our valley and I’m against it. My family and I suffer
from allergies and even asthma since we moved to this area. [Santa Clarita]
57. I would like to be notified and I am concerned about this situation. Especially if
the toxic site is in the same or close proximity to the new Golden Valley High
School. [Santa Clarita]
58. When a toxic hazardous waste site is cleaned up, health hazards to the
community are reduced! [Santa Clarita]
59. I want to make sure my family’s health is not endangered including our water
supply. [Santa Clarita]
60. I would like to be notified if it [site] presents any further health risk. I now drink
bottled water, but still use tap water for bathing and laundry. [Santa Clarita]
61. My wife and I have experienced sever and frequent sinus/respiratory problems
since having moved here. So have our adult children who live in the Claiborn
Circle J tract. [Santa Clarita]
62. Is there any risk to us as a result of the perchlorate contamination? Is our
Well water contaminated in any way? [Santa Clarita]
63. Take action to fix this deadly issue. [Santa Clarita]
64. Big health hazard. My two dogs have died from lymphoma in last 7 years.
Another dog in the neighborhood was only 3 and died of cancer. [Stratford
Drive, Santa Clarita]
65. Concerned with water table and continual water pollution. [Santa Clarita]
66. The safety and health of our citizens should be the most important issue to
cleanup the toxic chemicals to make our environment safe. [Santa Clarita]
67. What is the environmental impact of this site to the community? [Santa Clarita]
68. I am very concerned about the safety and care of our environment. [Santa
Clarita]
69. We use water in the daily production of products sold at our facility. [Via
Princessa, Santa Clarita]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to health continued:
70. I was diagnosed with a hyper-thyroid shortly after moving into the area. From
all the newspaper articles I have been reading, it appears that perchlorate
levels found in the water supply contribute to the disease. [Oxford Lane, Santa
Clarita]
71. We live very close to this site and we are very concerned. Rolling Ridge Drive,
Santa Clarita]
72. I am concerned due to the High School being built near the site and homes also
being built. [Santa Clarita]
73. My home is in the Circle J. area and I’m concerned about toxic waste so close
to my home. [Santa Clarita]
74. Will there be any health issues for me and my family? What kinds of studies
have been done on the effects of the waste from this site?[Santa Clarita]
75. My concerns are more long-term, i.e.… cancers and other illnesses. [Santa
Clarita]
76. Health. I am 93 years old. [Santa Clarita]
Public response from Saugus:
77. I was unaware about this site until recently. I am concerned about the possible
effects of the chemicals on the air quality, and if there are increases in certain
diseases in this area because of the chemicals. [Saugus]
78. I have cancer, there seems to be a high rate of cancer in this housing tract. I
would like a call from someone regarding cancer studies and the toxins
remaining at this cleanup. [Manchester Way, Saugus]
79. What are the risks to my family? What is being done to ensure our safety? Are
property values affected? What is the length of time for clean up? [Saugus]
80. I feel that the level of toxic chemicals should have been disclosed to us, the
Circle J Community. We have 16 people so far that have thyroid disease
probably from the perchlorate in the water. I am very concerned because I
have 3 children who drank the water. I remember years ago they tested the
runoff water in our drains in the middle of July and told us the water was safe
to drink. I often wonder if the water had been tested during the rainy season if
the results would have been different! [Saugus]
81. My water comes from Castaic Lake water. I am very concerned on the possible
health risks this may have on my family. [Saugus]
82. CONCERNS: Water table – water supply – if it goes to houses – traffic – street
usage. [Saugus]
83. I am concerned about the water delivered to my home. Water safety issues - is
the land-Circle J Ranch- where I live affected?[Saugus] 84. From the map, the Metrolink seems close to the site. Is or will there be potential
danger for the Metrolink, the railroads or the people that take the Metrolink to
work because of the chemical deposits??? [Saugus]
85. My only concern is airborne contaminants during clean-up. [Saugus]
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
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Public comment relating to health continued:
86. I believe that for the health of the citizens and animal population of Santa
Clarita this area must be thoroughly and completely cleaned up of all toxins
and dangerous substances and chemicals before any construction is permitted
at this site-this includes roads through the fringe areas. [Saugus]
87. I am concerned that the drainage from Bermite may be running through the
bottom of my lot. [Parvin Rd, Saugus]
88. I moved to Saugus in 1956, my daughter was 9 years old. She went to Saugus
Grammar School, across from the plant that made records. Then we learned
that SVC was dangerous to health. Now it is in the water. [Saugus]
Public response from Stevenson Ranch:
89. I would like a detailed report of what exactly are the risks of perchlorate in
drinking water. [Stevenson Ranch]
90. 1) What kinds of cancers do these toxic substances cause? 2) Does over
crowding mean anything to you? 1500 homes would bring over 300 more cars
to our street. [Stevenson Ranch]
Public response from Valencia:
91. I am very concerned, I have lived in Valencia (near Seco Cyn.) for the past 23
years - my husband had cancer, my neighbor across the street died of cancer
(resident for past 18 years). I think if there is contamination in the water we
need to know about it. [Laurel Creek., Valencia]
92. Is there any danger to nearby resident’s health? Is it safe to drink the water?
[Valencia]
93. I am interested to know how widespread effect of contaminants reached
surrounding area and its effect on children and adults. [Valencia]
94. My daughter had thyroid cancer. We lived in Placentia Canyon. [Rockefeller
Avenue, Valencia]
95. Mainly concerned about the level of contamination and now it will affect the
residents of Santa Clarita. Is it unsafe?[Valencia]
96. I am actually quite worried about the effects which the water we were drinking
before the wells were closed may have had on us. I know that perchlorate
adversely affects the thyroid and I am concerned that my children may have
become victims of its poison. [Valencia]
97. Your map doesn’t show surrounding areas that would add to the concern of the
general public. The Golden Valley High School is being built next to the site.
The Santa Clarita Sports Complex with a skate park and aquatic center are next
to the site. The recent change in street name from Redview Drive to Center
Point Drive may cause some of your survey mail to be returned. There will be
thousands of children in this area daily. They are the most susceptible receptors
of environmental pollution. A health risk assessment must be done. [Valencia]
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Public comment relating to health continued:
98. You have approved a high school and a sports complex in this area. It is not the
responsibility of the public to protect the children on these sites it is the
responsibility of our government agencies. [Valencia]
Public response – no name or address given:
99. I live directly next to the site. I am concerned for my children’s health. [no
address given]
100. It needs to be cleaned up. Levels of perchlorate need to be checked for risks of
cancer. [no address given]
101. I’m worried about the health effects of toxic substances on our water supply and
possible cancer and other ailments that may result.[no address given]
102. What are the dangers this poses to the surrounding areas?[no address given]
103. I’ve stopped drinking the water 5 years ago. [no address given]
104. As an environmentalist I have great concern for the environment and health of
its inhabitants. I believe successful cleanup is vital as these substances have
enormous ramifications: human life (healthy) is dependent on a healthy
environment. [no address given]
105. You need to poll this neighborhood on diseases related to the toxins. We have a
high level of breast cancers, thyroid diseases and children with ADHD. Three
deaths in one small neighborhood related to breast cancers. Two right next
door to each other. What are the odds? [no address given]
106. Concerned about the environment-water, air…[no address given]
107. I have two children and live very close to Soledad Canyon. My concerns are for
the safety of our health. I work with a realtor and would like to be abreast of
new info for my family and future families moving to S. Clarita. [no address
given]
108. Contamination of water wells in the area. [no address given]
109. What are the effects of this chemical? How would the chemical affect our
water, air, etc.. [no address given]
110. It concerns me that my family may be at risk due to the toxicity of the chemicals
that spilled and leaked at the 996 acre site. [no address given]
111. The potential for future health hazards for this site are great. Even if this site is
“cleaned,” will people be willing to live in this area and risk their family’s
health? There have been several recent owners of this property, none of which
have been willing or able to investigate the health and safety conditions. The
site is too large for any in-depth hazard investigation. I suggest that a small
representative site (5 – 10 acres) be investigated for health hazards to see if it is
feasible to develop the entire 996 acres. [no address given]112. Hope we all don’t die of cancer too early. [no address given]
113. Where exactly did these wells serve? Should I be drinking filtered water from
my sink or should I bring water in?[no address given]
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Public comment relating to health continued:
114. Even if they cleaned up the site, I would not live there. There have been so many
problems regarding it, I would not trust that it actually has been cleaned up.
Most people I talk to agree with that. I grew up in Circle J and my father along
with numerous people in our neighborhood had thyroid cancer which is what is
caused by that chemical. Our area has been claimed to be clean and look what
happened. [no address given]
115. Chemical spillage could cause cancer. [no address given]
116. Concern regarding impact on our water supply and cancers. [no address given]
117. My main interest would be for the safe clean up activities of any type of
chemicals on the site which would be hazardous to humans and animals. [no
address given]
118. I’d like the site to be cleaned up. The idea of our drinking water being impacted
by the chemicals is not very reassuring to me. I am already worried about the
air quality in SCV. Also the Bermite site and other proposed endeavors (i.e.
Elsmere, Canyon landfill proposal) etc… I’d like to protect the environment as
much as possible and especially the one I (and family) live in. [no address
given]
119. All new home owners who have children will end up playing on the
contaminated ground … at the site. [no address given]
120. How can I be affected by the proposed clean-up? [no address given]
121. Contact the Biological Department of CSUN and CSU-Ventura and the College
of the Canyons. The COC Biological Department will be expanding over the
next few years – maybe you could offer some programs that help the college
students earn degrees while helping the DTSC. [no address given]
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3.3 Public comment relating to communication
Number of Public Responses 12 % (n=80)
Note: All public comments are unabridged direct quotes.
Public response from Acton:
1. Provide fact sheets by mail – offering the opportunity to attend public meetings
for further clarification of facts. [Acton]
Public response from Canyon Country:
2. Provide info. on Santa Clarita City Website. [Canyon Country]
3. I really wasn’t aware of the facility and the possible danger which it poses. The
site was not discussed to me when I bought my home in April 1998. [Canyon
Country]
4. Fact sheets provide info, pubic meetings allow for community feedback and
questions, e-mails would also be good. [Canyon Country]
5. I have no idea of this site it’s far from my residential area. [Canyon Country]
6. Fact sheets are the easiest way of keeping interested people informed and
updated of procedures and results of testing. [Canyon Country]
7. This is the first time we have heard about this. I have looked on the DTSC
Website and the Santa Clarita Website but all information has been vague.
[Canyon Country]
8. I don’t have any ideas about this site. [Canyon Country]
9. Provide public meetings that present no bull. Publish information in the LA
Times, Daily News, and the Signal. [Canyon Country]
10. Provide information by fact sheet so that we can have proof in writing. [Santa
Clarita]
11. I have relocated from the Bay Area (Northern California) only 1 year ago, so I
am still in the learning process in addition to focusing on obtaining a job out
here. Updated mailers will assist me in keeping myself informed. [Canyon
Country]
12. Please send me fact sheets in Spanish. [Canyon Country]
13. An e-mail would be great outlining cleanup progress. [Canyon Country]
Public response from Castaic:
14. Provide fact sheet – more people in the area will receive more information
concerning the condition of the site and the potential hazards. [Castaic]
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Public comment relating to communication continued:
Public response from Las Vegas:
15. Mailings of 4-8 page reports which have accurate information. Our experience
in SCV has been that DTSC mailers in which property owners have input are
widely inaccurate e.g. mailed fact sheet on Golden Valley High School. [Las
Vegas]
Public response from Newhall:
16. I am concerned but I don’t know much, I would like to learn more. [Newhall]
17. Use public access television to deliver information. [Newhall]
18. Placerita Canyon Property Owners Association – arrange to speak at a meeting
and/or put updates in their bulletins. [Newhall]
19. I haven’t really heard much about this issue. [Newhall]
20. I can’t attend meetings, so a fact sheet or Web info would be great. [Newhall]
21. Thank you for contacting us. This is the first we have heard of it. [Newhall]
22. I am very interested but did not know how to get information. [Newhall]
23. I would like more information on how the site has affected the water supply.
[Newhall]
24. Send out information via e-mail. [Newhall]
25. I was unaware of the problem before I purchased my home. [Newhall]
26. This is the first time I have heard of the Whittaker-Bermite facility. I would be
interested in environmental impact reports re: indigenous and endangered plant
and animal species. [Newhall]
27. Not always able to attend meetings – fact sheet mailings keep everyone
informed. [Newhall]
28. I have not lived in the area long enough to be really informed. [Newhall]
29. Provide information through newspapers or mailings – this survey was great.
[Newhall]
Public response from Santa Clarita:
30. Fact sheets are the best because it is hard to attend public meetings in our busy
schedule. [Santa Clarita]
31. I trust our City Council to make decisions regarding the property. They are
informed while I am not. [Santa Clarita]
32. Please inform local residents about each step of the cleanup process, and keep
us informed of the progress monthly. [Santa Clarita]
33. Public information aspect of project has been lacking. [Santa Clarita] 34. A Website or a link from the City Website where the community can easily
retrieve info. and ask questions. [Santa Clarita]
35. Mail is really the best way to be kept informed. [Santa Clarita]
36. Meetings need to be announced ahead of City of Santa Clarita Council meetings
with DTSC in attendance. [Santa Clarita]
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Public comment relating to communication continued:
37. Although public meetings offer the best forum, work schedules sometimes
prevent me from attending. Therefore, fact sheets can be very helpful. [Santa
Clarita]
38. I was never made aware of this matter when I purchased my home last 9/02.
[Santa Clarita]
39. Make fact sheet mailings available to all residents who because of time
constraints may not be able to attend public meetings. [Santa Clarita]
40. Why bother. Your going to do what you want anyway, I found that out through
your public meetings. The public meetings made me realize nothing I said or did
would make a difference – sad!! [Santa Clarita]
41. I would like to be updated from time to time regarding the progress of the clean-
up process. [Santa Clarita]
42. I would like to be updated from time to time regarding the progress of the clean-
up process. [Santa Clarita]
43. I’d just like to be kept notified of what’s going on in clean up. [Santa Clarita]
44. I was totally unaware of this site. [Santa Clarita]
45. I own a business and it is hard for me to attend public meetings. [Santa Clarita]
46. I bought my house in this area and wasn’t informed of this cancer causing
issue. Please make sure we get the facts as fast as possible. [Santa Clarita]
47. If you have sent this survey to every homeowner or resident in Santa Clarita, I
consider it a waste of taxpayer’s money when so few are affected or involved.
[Santa Clarita]
48. Send automatic e-mail notification of new information or DTSC meeting
minutes regarding the Bermite facility. [Santa Clarita]
49. It is difficult to find the time, as a self-employed individual to attend meetings
for all the issues (including the TMC mining threat). Thank you for sending this
questionnaire. [Santa Clarita]
50. I follow this topic through the local newspaper. It might also be helpful to
televise public meetings or provide important information on the local public
access channel – 20. [Santa Clarita]
51. I’m unable to attend public meetings. [Santa Clarita]
52. Provide updates on the internet. [Santa Clarita]
53. E-mail mailings of events, status etc. [Santa Clarita]
54. I was unaware of public meetings. [Santa Clarita]
55. I am a member of the CAG, but am not notified of meetings. Better notification
of CAG meetings and evening hours are more inclusive for working residents.
Right now, you hear from business owners who can attend day time meetings
and retirees who make their own schedules. This is not reflective of the majority
of residents. [Santa Clarita] 56. Suggest you provide press releases for news articles. [Santa Clarita]
57. Is this site currently being cleaned? It was my understanding from local media
that nothing has been done yet. More information needs to be made available
to the community. I was unaware that there was an information repository at
the public library. [Santa Clarita]
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Public comment relating to communication continued:
58. Did not know information repositories existed. [Santa Clarita]
Public response from Saugus:
59. I have made calls [to officials] before – hard to get information. [Saugus]
60. Did not know of this site until this survey. [Saugus]
61. Getting to meetings is difficult. [Saugus]
Public response from Stevenson Ranch:
62. I would like to know more. I did research before moving to Stevenson Ranch. I
did not move to West Hills because of the Rocketdyne Boeing problem. I would
like to know more about this in great detail. I have 2 young children.
[Stevenson Ranch]
Public response from Valencia:
63. I first questioned state rep Rick Varenchik when the site development was first
proposed-he, like I, he was very concerned about the toxic waste left behind by
Whittaker-Bermite. I think it is necessary to keep this problem in the news, in
front of residents because we have so many new residents who are unaware of
the sites history. I know our paper (the SCV Sun-quarterly) will continue to
cover the story. [Valencia]
64. Can’t always get to public meetings, but still want updates on info from Water
Companies, Army Corps of Engineers etc. [Valencia]
65. I understand that in order to manufacture certain items, dangerous chemicals
may be used. As long as these chemicals are properly maintained on the
company’s premises, I do not see the need for public involvement. [Valencia]
66. In newspapers – provide a map showing the surrounding development and
allow more time for the public to respond. [Valencia]
67. Sending information via e-mail is most convenient. [Valencia]
68. Contact others whose water quality and air quality could be affected.
[Valencia]
Public response from Van Nuys:
69. Have public meetings and no closed meetings like the King/Gates project. [Van
Nuys]
Public response – no name or address given:
70. We keep informed via the Signal newspaper. [no address given]
71. This is the first I’ve heard of this. [no address given]
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Public comment relating to communication continued:
72. Need regular newspaper (Daily News, Signal, L A Times) announcements – not
just news stories are needed. [no address given]
73. Let’s just focus our current resources, albeit limited resources to the job at
hand – not wasting time and money on public relations efforts that do not affect
the actual clean-up. [no address given]
74. E-mail to save taxpayers dollars. [no address given]
75. I am 84 years old. I have no voice box with which to speak or express my
feelings, but I wish to thank you for thinking of me. [no address given]
76. I didn’t know anything about this site. [no address given]
77. Concerned about the fact that this is the first that I have heard about this
perchlorate contamination. [no address given]
78. Contact the community by way of the Signal. [no address given]
79. I get sufficient info from newspapers – e.g. Daily News, Santa Clarita Section.
[no address given]
80. I would like to be kept current on all findings regarding this area. Please mail
all reports. [no address given]
3.4 Public comment relating to land development:
Number of Public Responses 9 % (n=61)
Note: All public comments are unabridged direct quotes.
Public response from Canyon Country:
1. Do not build this awful place. [Canyon Country]
2. My primary concern in relation to this site is the completion of the Via
Princessa. This valley desperately needs an alternative rout between the 5 and
14 [freeways], and it is frustrating to know that we are so close, yet so far
away from a solution. Please resolve your differences quickly so that the
citizens of Santa Clarita will no longer be so inconvenienced. Thank you.
[Canyon Country]
3. We are interested because of how it will affect development in the area,
especially the impact of traffic. We’re also concerned if after cleanup there will
be any effects from the chemicals on the water or to future residents on the site.
Also, we are interested because we want to see Via Princessa Road eventually
extended and if this site affects that happening anytime soon. [Canyon
Country].
4. No building – please keep it as it is now – rural and a buffer in the center of too
much growth! The historical aspects of the site are so important too! [Canyon
Country]
5. Concerned about planned High School to be built on site in addition to roads
and housing. [Canyon Country]
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Public comment relating to development continued:
6. Do not develop the site. Maybe a road paralleling San Fernando Road and/or
Soledad Canyon. Leave the rest as an open area, maybe a park. Do not
develop the land, we have too much traffic and road congestion as it is.
[Canyon Country]
7. I was following this case somewhat for a few years – quite a struggle between
developers, owners, investors, and the City. Simple logic has it that the land
needs to be cleaned by the one who contaminated it in the first place, even if
nothing is ever built on the land. Simple logic says contaminated water kills
people and wildlife, now and in the future. Obviously, nobody wants to pay to
correct the wrong, but everyone wants to be a profiteer in the end. Despite the
financial hurdles, the land needs to be satisfactorily cleaned before any road,
home, business, or park is built – not cleaned in stages which will delay the
cleanup for years more. Safety for us existing families first before more
development. [Canyon Country]
8. I believe there are too many homes out there in the first place. Adding more
homes will just cause more traffic, crime, and not enough schools for kids. At
what point will this City’s government see that the over population is going to
be the ruin of this valley. The SCV City Council is in the pocket book of
Newhall Land and Farm. [Canyon Country]
9. Please keep site underdeveloped. [Canyon Country]
10. I have found that most of my neighbors are unaware of this superfund site and
its history and problems. Sadly, most people in this town are ignorant or
apathetic about the land their precious overpriced dream homes are built on.
They only look at a floor plan. Please don’t ever build anything on this land!
Especially schools, homes, or parks! Maybe when it is properly cleaned up it
can be used for lesser populated uses such as a construction storage yard or
just put a road through, like extending Via Princessa, but that’s all. I will not
send my children to a school built on this land, or purchase a home. The land
my own house is on worries me even. [Canyon Country]
11. The wisdom of building on land that was polluted since I don’t trust that land
can be cleanup up 100%. This would not be a place I would prefer to work or
learn and those inhabiting that area should be notified. The city is eager to
build up this area. [Canyon Country]
12. Turn it into a NASCAR Race track or leave it as open space. [Canyon Country]
13. As I understand it, the land is pretty much locked up for development until it is
cleaned up. This is stopping a road from going across it which will connect Via
Princessa on both sides of the Bermite site. Until this road can be completed,
all traffic uses Rainbow Glen from Via Princessa as a shortcut to Soledad
Canyon. We live on the corner of Rainbow Glen and Gilbert and get an enormous amount of traffic at the stop sign. We’re hoping once the road is
opened at the top, the traffic will decrease somewhat at the stop sign – hence
our personal interest in the clean up. [Canyon Country]
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Public comment relating to development continued:
14. Of additional concern is the future expansion of homes in this community that
will further tax the remaining water supply that appears to be threatened by
the continuing movement of the contaminants and whether the taxpayers will
be left to bear the cost of cleanup. [Canyon Country]
Public response from Newhall:
15. We would like to see Via Princessa connected to the bridge over San Fernando
Rd. We also want the Metro link station to continue on the site. [Newhall]
16. Use if open space and other developments, i.e. Entertainment, recreation,
tourism, convention center, multi-use trails connecting to the city trail system.
[Newhall]
17. Are there any plans to build on the site after cleanup?[Newhall]
18. I am concerned about the contaminants that have gotten into the groundwater
and carcinogens that continue to be present. The idea of building housing on
or around that site frightens me. [Newhall]
19. Site should not be developed. It should be left as is or turned into a natural
park. [Newhall]
20. I do not feel any more housing is needed in this area. We are over crowded
now. Why take a chance with this area. Not knowing about all the chemicals
that were dumped. Please, enough is enough. Leave our valley alone. No
more building. No more houses, no more people. Our roads are over
crowded, our schools are over crowded.[Newhall]
21. If planning to build homes on site, I would not live there. [Newhall]
22. Housing does not seem like an appropriate use. I have doubts the property
could ever be completely clean. Because of the costly cleanup, the high price
of Insurance, I’m concerned the site might be partially developed and then
abandoned. [Newhall]
23. What are the future plans for the site? [Newhall]
24. Having grown up in Placentia Canyon, we as kids spent most of our days hiking
along the back fences of this property – which has now all been leveled and is
under most of Circle J houses-we used to watch them dump all sorts of 55
gallon drums and various debris into what was used to be canyons now
covered with homes and being curious kids always wondering what it was,
especially knowing they manufactured military items. I think clean up of this
property is pretty impossible-who knows what has been buried already. Clean
up would be great for health and safety but if it means building thousands of
homes-please leave it contaminated. [Newhall]
25. We would like a horse trail through this site. We don’t care if it’s toxic, we don’t touch anything, don’t stay long, and don’t leave trash. [Newhall]
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Public comment relating to development continued:
Public response from Palmdale:
26. Site is so central to our town plans for cleanup and use of development is of
interest to so many of our citizens. Under development we want to know what it
is safe to build and who it is safe to have occupy the site?[Palmdale]
Public response from Santa Clarita:
27. Please clean site up to allow for additional roads and development. [Santa
Clarita]
28. I am concerned with the need to build must needed schools. This land should
not be used for schools or homes, especially – not while the high levels in the
well water and soil. Our children must be protected. [Santa Clarita]
29. I live in Circle J Ranch Estates and sell real estate in the area. People ask me
about future development and cleanup and I would like to be able to answer
their questions. [Santa Clarita]
30. Concerned about future school site on the property. [Santa Clarita]
31. Please no housing development. The city cannot handle the traffic. Potential
lawsuits for sight. [Santa Clarita]
32. From a viewpoint that the SCV will become a San Fernando Valley in 50 yrs –
when I won’t be here but others will, cleanup needs to begin ASAP. But I
believe the land should be allowed to “rest” for 100 years and nothing should
be built on it. I think it should be made into a major park for the entire valley
(no homes – no business) of the future. I’m speaking of a park like New York’s
Central Park, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, LA’s Griffith Park. There
could be a small zoo, a major trail for bicycling and jogging, a “nature
station,” a concert bowl, horse back riding etc. I know we have much of this
already – but it’s helter-skelter, make it concentrated here! [Santa Clarita]
33. Please do not allow any development of the Whittaker/Bermite site until it is
thoroughly de-contaminated to a minimum of 50% below federal or state
acceptable levels, which ever are lower. Typically with sites of this nature they
are not decontaminated to acceptable levels because of back room deal making
or a last minute campaign contribution giving the site an all clear signature.
Development begins and 10-15 years later much higher than normal cancer
rate appears in the residents living in the development, especially children. If
all funds are not available, DO NOT START THE CLEANUP EFFORT!!!
[Santa Clarita]
34. I am aware of the proposed development of this area. I have concerns as to the
level of contamination to water before it was detected. Prior to the wells being
shut down, what type of detection methods were employed and what type of
contamination already occurred previously. Has the health of residents been
affected before the contamination was detected?[Santa Clarita]
35. I would like it to be a requirement that the site is completely cleaned up prior to
any development being allowed. [Santa Clarita]
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Public comment relating to development continued:
36. I believe we should allow development on or near the sight until it is fully
cleaned up. I also believe the surrounding area should be regularly monitored
to detect possible runoff contamination. Please keep us informed. Although
the company I work for is one of many who lost money in the Porta Bella
Project, I don’t feel it should go forward unless the property has a clean bill of
health. [Santa Clarita]
37. Never allow building on Bermite site. In my opinion, it will never be cleaned
up! Also, why is Greene Valley High School being built on land that is due to
ail wells that have been capped in the fairly recent past? All the children who
will attend G.V.H.S. will be in Peril. Also, these residents of the Lantana
housing development are facing the same danger. You will see much
Leukemia, T-cell Lymphoma and other cancers. All I can say is God Help
them all. [Santa Clarita]
38. Leave it as is, so they will not develop it. [Santa Clarita]
39. I’m glad to see progress in the much needed development of the property –
primarily roads: Golden Valley at Via Princessa. [Santa Clarita]
40. Do not develop the site. [Santa Clarita]
41. It is best left underdeveloped. [Santa Clarita]
42. We are concerned not only for the cleanup of toxic substances, but also treasure
the open spaces so needed to enhance the quality of life here. With the massive
growth (top in the country), open space is at a premium. This community is
getting too large for the land carrying capacity for the region – not only water
use, but transportation access is getting over loaded. Please balance priorities.
[Santa Clarita]
43. I believe the entire area needs to be cleaned before any of the land is developed.
[Santa Clarita]
Public response from Saugus:
44. This site should be turned into a wilderness park for all to use – including the
local wild life. [Saugus]
45. 1. Site must be cleaned up before any building is allowed [in order] to protect
future family’s. 2. Limit new homes that may be built. [Saugus]
46. 1) The site must be entirely cleaned before allowing development. 2) Can the
contaminated water be used for other purposes (re: irrigation)? If so, include
a golf course on the site. [Saugus]
47. Please build roads and houses there. [Saugus]
48. Let’s get it done and allow development in the area. [Saugus]
Public response from Valencia:
49. Because I own property in SCO and would like to see the site developed when
it is safe. [Valencia]
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Public comment relating to development continued:
Public response – no name or address given:
50. We already have too many trucks on Soledad and Sierra Highway. In the last
few years it has doubled. [no address given]
51. Run off from Bermite flow across my property.[no address given]
52. Do not feel that homes should be built on the site. [no address given]
53. What is going to happen with it?[no address given]
54. No development until all clean up is finished. [no address given]
55. Don’t believe houses or schools should ever be built on the Bermite facility
property until such time as complete eradication of toxic chemicals can be
guaranteed. [no address given]
56. No development until entire site is cleaned up and safe. [no address given]
57. Take out the bad dirt and build new roads and homes. Put in a park and a new
school as well. [no address given]
58. That the ultimate use be something like a park so that in the future we won’t
have another Belmont High School fiasco or toxic waste showing up 30 years
from now in a housing tract. [no address given]
59. Drop the whole issue and ignore the site – leave it un-developed. It will never
be clean, there will always be lawsuits and we have too many houses as it is.
[no address given]
60. Traffic, noise and view. [no address given]
61. I would not want homes built on this site. It is hazardous to people’s health.
[no address given]
3.5 Non Whittaker-Bermite related public comment:
Number of Public Responses 1 % (n=4)
Note: All public comments are unabridged direct quotes.
Public response from Canyon Country:
1. My husband and I are very concerned about the high school, Golden Valley,
being on contaminated ground. Our sons will most likely attend that school in the
future. We read about cover-ups and miss-handled inspections all the time and
fear this will happen at Bermite. I personally feel that pollutants and chemicals
are contributing to so many people having cancer these days (and animals).
Finally, there are more then enough houses in Santa Clarita. We don’t need any
more to be built on this land. [Canyon Country]
2. How safe is the “Golden Valley” High School concerning this matter? [Canyon
Country]
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Public comment relating to non Whittaker-Bermite related public comment:
Public response from Newhall:
3. Yes, there is a site here in Newhall that is worse that the Bermite site. I have a lot
of information regarding this site. Many people are sick because of the
contaminations on this site. [Wheeler Road, Newhall]
Public response from Van Nuys:
4. Dear DTSC, please check into the contamination of former Santa Clarita Green
Waste facility “Pine Street Incident.” All contaminated water was buried on site.
Now part of the Gates/King development project. [Van Nuys]
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Survey Question 4: What is the best way to provide you with
information?
Note: Some members of the public made more than one suggestion regarding how to
provide information.
Public response:
Fact Sheets Public Meetings No Response to Question 4
81 % (n=533) 15 % (n=96) 5 % (n=36)
Survey respondents requested that information be made available by the following:
Provide
information by
e-mail/Website
Provide
information
by mail
Provide
information by
news papers/TV
Provide
information by
phone
Provide
information
by Fax
12 % (n=80) 8 % (n=50) 5 % (n=31) 1 % (n=4) 0.5 % (n=2)
Survey Question 5: Do you currently attend public meetings
related to this site?
Public response:
Yes No Not aware/informed that public
meetings are taking place
No Response to
Question 5
11 % (n=71) 81 % (n=537) 2 % (n=13) 6 % (n=37)
Survey Question 6: Please indicate if you have visited any of
the four information repositories that document site
activities.
Note: Some survey respondents indicated that they had visited more than one
information repository.
Public response:
Valencia
Branch Public
Library
Canyon
County Branch
Library
City of Santa
Clarita
Planning
Department
Bermite
Facility
No
Response to
Question 6
17 % (n=109) 12 % (n=80) 10 % (n=63) 3 % (n=18) 69 % (n=454)
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Survey Question 7: Have you had any contact with local,
state or other officials regarding this site?
Public response:
Yes No No Response to Question 7
10 % (n=66) 83 % (n=544) 7 % (n=48)
Table 2: Question 7 – Public indicated contact with the following officials:
Name or Type of Organization No. of Responses %
City of Santa Clarita (non-specific) 27 4%
Congressman McKeon 8 1%
State Officials (non-specific) 5 1%
Department of Toxic Substances Control 3 0.5%
Federal Environmental Protection Agency 2 0.3%
Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce 2 0.3%
State Assemblyman Richman 1 0.1%
Senator Knight 1 0.1%
Former Assembly Member George Runner 1 0.1%
Santa Clarita Chamber Legislative Committee 1 0.1%
Department of Health Services (DHS) 1 0.1%
Public Utilities Commission 1 0.1%
Water Agencies (non-specific) 1 0.1%
Intergovernmental Affairs Office 1 0.1%
Air Quality Management District (AQMD) 1 0.1%
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Survey Question 8: Can you suggest any other person or groups that
might be interested in receiving information about this site?
Public response:
Number of public who made a response No response to Question 8
8 % (n=55) 92 % (n=603)
Table 3: Public recommended contacting the following:
Name of organization/or individual No. of Responses %
Placerita Home Owners Association (HOA) 6 1%
Sierra Club of Santa Clarita 4 1%
Circle J Ranch (HOA) 3 0.5%
Santa Clarita City Council 3 0.5%
Scenic Hills (HOA) 3 0.5%
Congressman McKeon 2 0.3%
Department of Fish & Game 2 0.3%
Santa Clarita Water Department 2 0.3%
Los Angeles Times Newspaper 2 0.3%
Signal Newspaper 2 0.3%
Rio Vista Elementary School 2 0.3%
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 2 0.3%
Golden Valley High School 1 0.1%
Valley View parent Teacher Association (PTA) 1 0.1%
Pacific Grove (HOA) 1 0.1%
Rainbow Glen (HOA) 1 0.1%
American Beauty (HOA) 1 0.1%
Friendly Valley (HOA) 1 0.1%
Assemblyman Richman 1 0.1%
Santa Clarita Valley Transit Council 1 0.1%
Valencia Industrial Association 1 0.1%
Pacific Legal Foundation 1 0.1%
S C Organization for Planning the Environment (SCOPE) 1 0.1%
Community Advisory Group (CAG) 1 0.1%
Whittaker Corporation 1 0.1%
Southland Regional Board of Realtors 1 0.1%
GEO-X-Geologists 1 0.1%
First Care Medical Group 1 0.1%
Erin Brockovich 1 0.1%
Teamsters 1 0.1%
Army Corps of Engineers 1 0.1%
Newhall Redevelopment Committee 1 0.1%
Canyon Country Advisory Committee 1 0.1%
Old Town Newhall Association 1 0.1%
Air Quality Management District (AQMD) 1 0.1%
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3.0 Mailing address provided; number and geographical
location of survey responses
Mailing address provided No name or mailing address provided
78 % (n=515) 21 % (n=135)
Only e-mail address provided Request to be taken off site mailing list
1 % (n=8) 4 % (n=28)
NOTE: The following locations of survey responses are sorted by greatest number
of responses from each geographical location:
Response from Santa
Clarita
Response from Canyon
Country
Response from Newhall
29 % (n=190) 20 % (n=133) 15 % (n=98)
Response from Saugus Response from Valencia Response from Stevenson
Ranch
8 % (n=51) 5 % (n=32) 0.3 % (n=2)
Response from Castaic Response from Agua Dulce Response from Van Nuys
0.3 % (n=2) 0.3 % (n=2) 0.1 % (n=1)
Response from Torrance Response from Palmdale Response from Glendale
0.1 % (n=1) 0.1 % (n=1) 0.1 % (n=1)
Response from Beverly
Hills
Response from Acton Response from
Redondo Beach
0.1 % (n=1) 0.1 % (n=1) 0.1 % (n=1)
Response from Las Vegas Response from Florida
0.1 % (n=1) 0.1 % (n=1)
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APPENDIX A: 2003 Whittaker Bermite Community Survey Questionnaire
State of California
Department of Toxic Substances Control
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility COMMUNITY SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE 2003
Para información en español por favor comuníquese con Leticia Hernández al número (714) 484-5488.
The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is involved in the oversight of chemical
cleanup activities taking place at the Whittaker-Bermite Facility, located at 22116 West Soledad
Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, California 91351. As part of ongoing oversight activities, DTSC is
undertaking a review of public outreach activities. With this in mind, the Department has sent you
this survey that will assist in the future planning of public outreach. Please mail, fax, or e-mail your
survey comments to DTSC by the 18th of August, 2003.
1. How long have you lived in the area?
Ä 0 – 5 years Ä 6 – 12 years Ä 13 – 20 years Ä 21 or more years
2. What is your current level of interest in this site?
Ä No interest Ä Low Ä Moderate Ä High interest
3. Do you have any specific comments regarding this site? If yes, please print you
response:_______________________________________________________________________
4. What is the best way to provide you with information? Ä Fact sheets Ä Public Meetings
Ä Other (please explain): ___ _______
5. Do you currently attend public meetings relating to the site? Ä Yes Ä No
6. Please indicate if you have visited any of the four information repositories that document
site activities:
ÄWest Corporation, Bermite Facility Ä City of Santa Clarita Public Library
2216 West Soledad Canyon Road Valencia Branch
Santa Clarita, CA 91351 23743 W. Magic Mountain Parkway
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Ä City of Santa Clarita Public Library Ä City of Santa Clarita Planning Department
Canyon County Branch 23920 Valencia Boulevard
18536 Soledad Canyon Road Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Santa Clarita, CA 91351
7. Have you had any contact with local, state or other officials regarding this site?
Ä Yes Ä No. If Yes, please specify:
8. Can you suggest any other person or groups that might be interested in receiving
information about this site?
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Appendix C — Demographic Profile
Santa Clarita Community Demographic Profile .3-mile Radius .5-mile Radius 1-mile Radius 2-mile Radius
Population2008 Projection 0 8 4,532 41, 154 2003 Estimate 0 7 4,469 37,884 2000 Census 0 6 4,388 35,798 1990 Census 0 3 3,810 28,573 Growth Rate 2003-2008 0.0% 14.29% 3.65% 8.63% Growth Rate 2000-2003 0.0% 16.67% 1.85% 5.83% Growth Rate 1990-2000 0.0% 100.00% 15.17% 25.29%
Age2000 Average Age 0 34.14 35.61 35.14 Population Above 20 years 0 57.4% 67.49% 68.34% Population Below 20 years 0 42.86% 32.51% 31.66%
Housing2008 Projected Housing Units 0 2 1,645 14,582 2003 Estimate 0 2 1,607 13,504 2000 Census 0 2 1,593 12,820 1990 Census 0 1 1,458 10,279 Growth 2003-2008 0.00% 14.29% 2.36% 7.98% Growth 2000-2003 0.00% 0.00% 0.88% 5.34% Growth 1990-2000 0.00% 100.00% 9.26% 24.72% 2003 Median Prop. Value $0 $625,000 $261,000 $253,495 2000 Avg. Household Size 0.00 3.34 2.72 2.79 One-Person Households 0.00% 0.00% 21.78% 22.70% Owner-Occupied 0.00% 0.00% 65.21% 70.06% Renter-Occupied 0.00% 0.00% 34.79% 29.94% Family Households in 2000 0.00% 100.00% 71.25% 70.85%
Population By Race* White 0.00% 85.71% 86.04% 80.19% Black 0.00% 0.00% 0.85% 1.42% Hispanic (Latino)* 0.00% 14.29% 11.3% 20.47% Asian or Pacific Islander 0.00% 0.00% 5.84% 5.46% Other Races 0.00% 0.00% 2.95% 8.43%
Household Income 2003 Average HH Income $0 $225,098 $102,319 $93,132 2003 Median HH Income $0 $200,000 $94,114 $76,874 Estimated Per Capita Income $0 61,295$ $32,756 $33,253
Education Level Elementary 0.00% 0.00% 2.32% 4.90% Some High School 0.00% 0.00% 5.95% 7.45% High School Graduate 0.00% 25.00% 16.15% 17.84% Some College, No Degree 0.00% 25.00% 27.41% 27.34% Associate Degree 0.00% 0.00% 12.39% 9.04% Bachelor Degree 0.00% 25.00% 25.09% 22.78% Graduate Degree 0.00% 0.00% 2.08% 2.08%
Source: 2000 Census
* Population by race figures includes Hispanic (Latino) as an origin rather than a race.
For the 2000 Census, many respondents who indicated that they are of Hispanic origin
also indicated that they were Caucasian, African-American, Asian or other race
classifications. Therefore, the “race” percentages exceed 100%.
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Appendix D — History of
Whittaker’s role in site cleanup
activities, and actions to be taken
under the 2002 Unilateral Order
In 1987, Whittaker submitted a list of
their Solid Waste Management Units
(SWMU) to the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. SWMU are storage
areas for drums and other containers of
liquid and solid materials that are
hazardous.
In 1992, DTSC executed a search
warrant which discovered information
identifying 77 additional areas of
concern at the facility that were not
included in the previous reports.
In 1994, Whittaker entered into a
Consent Order with DTSC to conduct
comprehensive site-wide investigation of
the 77 areas of concern. The
investigation included all the old
landfills and any areas where solid or
liquid wastes were potentially
discharged to drainage areas or into the
ground.
In compliance with the Consent Order,
from 1994 through 1996 Whittaker
consultants conducted background
investigations on all 77 areas.
For 59 of the areas of concern, Whittaker
contractors conducted field
investigations under a work plan and
field sampling plan approved by DTSC
and under supervision of DTSC staff.
The investigations included soil vapor
surveys, exploratory trenching, near-
surface soil sampling, and exploratory
borings. Soil samples were collected and
analyzed for a long list of physical and
chemical constituents.
In September 1996, based on the results
of investigations in progress, Whittaker
submitted to DTSC, proposals to
conduct various removal actions and
pilot tests to address areas where
contamination was encountered at levels
exceeding targeted cleanup goals.
In January 1997, Whittaker submitted to
DTSC a draft 14-volume Remedial
Investigation (RI) Report setting forth
the site investigation findings. The report
identified problems in 8 of the 77 areas
and referenced the work plans that had
been submitted to DTSC to promptly
address these problems. DTSC prepared
comments on the RI Report, but
Whittaker never addressed these
comments.
In 1997, perchlorate was found in four
domestic production wells located near
the Property. Whittaker consultants,
under DTSC oversight, performed a
series of site investigations to assess
perchlorate contamination of soil,
groundwater, and surface water.
The interim remediation programs and
pilot tests that had been proposed in
1996 and 1997 were placed on hold due
to the priority given to the perchlorate
issue. The additional investigations
confirmed that perchlorate
contamination was present in near-
surface and subsurface soils at various
locations and was also present in surface
water drainage and the groundwater
along the northern border of the facility.
In January 1999, Whittaker sold the
Property to Santa Clarita, LLC
(SCLLC), a division of Remediation
Financial Inc., a Brownfield
development company based out of
Phoenix, Arizona. In addition to
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assuming all of the remaining
environmental cleanup responsibilities
when they purchased the property,
SCLLC also acquired the right to
develop the property.
Since 1999, SCLLC continued the
process of conducting remedial
investigations, feasibility studies, and
baseline risk assessments at the Property.
In 2001, SCLLC entered into an
Enforceable Agreement with DTSC in
which SCLLC agreed to complete all
environmental investigations and
cleanup of the Property.
However, in 2002, DTSC notified
SCLLC that it had defaulted on its site
cleanup responsibilities. In the fall of
2002, DTSC opened negotiations with
Whittaker to resume the site
investigation and cleanup work that
SCLLC had failed to complete.
In October 2002, SCLLC made known
its intention to sell the Property. As part
of that sale, the prospective purchaser
would assume the site investigation and
remediation responsibilities.
In November 2002, DTSC broke off
negotiations with Whittaker. On
November 11, 2002, DTSC issued a
Imminent and Substantial Endangerment
Order requiring Whittaker to complete a
comprehensive site investigation and
feasibility study for all contaminants of
concern. On November 22, 2002,
Whittaker agreed to perform under the
November 11, 2002 Order
notwithstanding SCLLC’s pending sale
of the Property.
Additional actions to be conducted
under the November 2002 Unilateral
Order
Under the February 2001Unilateral
Order and consistent with the
Enforceable agreement DTSC entered
into with SCLLC, Whittaker is required
to investigate and remediate the OUs in
accordance with the following formal
regulatory process:
(1) Prepare remedial investigation work
plan;
(2) Implement approved remedial
investigation work plan;
(3) Prepare interim screening and
evaluation document and work plan for
testability studies;
(4) Implement DTSC approved
treatability studies work plan;
(5) Prepare remedial investigation
report;
(6) Conduct baseline risk assessment
using investigation findings;
(7) Prepare feasibility studies and
baseline risk assessment report;
(8) Prepare draft remedial action plan
(RAP) for DTSC and public review;
(9) Prepare responses to comments
received on draft RAP and incorporate
changes as needed;
(10) Prepare final remedial action plan;
(11) Prepare detailed remedial design
plans for DTSC review;
(12) Implement DTSC approved
remedial action plan;
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(13) Prepare/submit implementation
report;
(14) Prepare/submit O&M work plan;
(15) Prepare/submit remedial action
review work plan;
(16) Implement DTSC-approved follow-
up monitoring and confirmation
sampling plan;
(17) Prepare/submit emergency response
action report if needed based on the
results of the follow-up monitoring.
The Unilateral Order also requires
Whittaker to do the following:
- Prepare and implement a public
participation plan
- Submit monthly summary reports
- Submit a work plan for checking for
and removing unexploded ordnance or
other explosive wastes.
According to the Order, the regulatory
process is already complete for the
portion of OU1 located along the eastern
boundary of the Property. The Order
includes a schedule under which the
process is to be completed for the rest of
the Property.
The first deadlines are associated with
completing work that SCLLC started
before their default, including
implementation of remedial
investigations for OU1D, OU2 and OU6,
and the submittal of a remedial
investigation/baseline risk assessment
report for OU1E.
The next steps are the submittal and
implementation of remedial
investigation work plans for OU7 and
OU3, the preparation of a remedial
investigation and baseline risk
assessment report for OU1D, and the
preparation of a final interim
remediation work plan for OU1E.
Background detail of Whittaker’s
environmental investigations and
cleanup activities from 1987 through
1999
The following work was conducted by
Whittaker as a result of the 1987
investigations aimed at closure of the
RCRA unit known as OU6. However,
since VOC contamination was
identified, DTSC required cleanup prior
to granting closure.
Between the end of manufacturing
operations in 1987 and the sale of the
Property in early 1999, Whittaker
conducted environmental investigations
and cleanup activities at the Property
under the supervision of DTSC and
DTSC’s predecessor state agency, the
Department of Health Services. The
following is a list of cleanup-related
activities that Whittaker conducted:
- Partial excavation and onsite treatment
of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Installation of a groundwater extraction
and treatment system
- Partial excavation and screening of
historic landfills
- Installation of a soil vapor extraction
system
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At Building 317, Whittaker excavated
some of the TCE-contaminated soil and
installed an onsite soil vapor extraction
system to treat the remaining soil.
Whittaker also installed a groundwater
extraction and treatment system that was
operated until contaminant levels were
reduced to below detection limits. The
excavated soils were treated by
aeration—spreading them out along the
ground to allow air and sunlight to
destroy the TCE. The aerated soils
remain onsite.
During the demolition of the
manufacturing facilities in the late 1980s
and early 1990s, Whittaker conducted an
investigation that included partial
excavation and screening of materials in
various landfills. Materials identified as
hazardous were segregated and hauled
offsite for proper disposal in a Class I
landfill.
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Appendix E — Locations where you can find site related information
LOCATION AND OPENING TIMES OF INFORMATION REPOITSORIES
The following locations hold information relating to site cleanup reports, community
survey results, and Public Participation Plans:
City of Santa Clarita Hours of Operation:
Planning Department M – T: 7.30 a.m. – 5.30 p.m.
Contact: Lisa Hardy SAT – SUN: Closed
Suite 300
23920 Valencia Boulevard
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
(661) 259-2489
Website: www.santa-clarita.com
City of Santa Clarita Public Library Hours of Operation:
Valencia Branch M – T: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Contact: Reference Desk F: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
23743 W. Magic Mountain Parkway SAT: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355 SUN: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
(661) 259-8942
City of Santa Clarita Public Library Hours of Operation:
Canyon Country Branch M – W: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Contact: Reference Desk T – F: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
18601 Soledad Canyon Road SAT: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Santa Clarita, CA 91351 SUN: Closed
(661) 251-2720
Department of Toxic Substances Control Hours of Operation:
1011 North Grandview Avenue, M – F: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Glendale, CA 91201.
(818) 551-2171
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Appendix F — Chemical and Waste Summary by Product Category
CHEMICAL AND WASTE SUMMARY BY PRODUCT CATEGORY
Whittaker Bermite Facility
________________________________________________________________________PRODUCT CATEGORY: Ammunition Rounds
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
20, 3mm cartridge PBXN-5 Contaminated Paper
RDX Contaminated Tools
Aluminum Experienced Test Items
Aluminum Oxide Neutralized Salts
Boron Neutralized Solutions
Calcium Resinate Powders
Epoxy Polyamide Reject Units
Epoxy Varnish Solvents
Graphite Thinner
Lacquer (incl. black, clear)
Laocquer Thinner
Methylene Chloride
Nitro Cellulose
Paint (primer + enamel)
Polyvinyl Acetate
Potassium Nitrate
Potassium Perchlorate
Smokeless Powder
Thread locking Compound
______________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Detonators, Fuzes, and Boosters
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Hm-6 Initiating charge,M57A1 HMX Contaminated Paper
Detonator, M505A3,Fuze,MK 43 PETN Contaminated Tools
RDX Expended Test Items
Acetone Neutralized Salts
Antimony Sulfide Neutralizing Solution
Barium Chromate Powders
Barium Nitrate Reject Units
Boron Solvents
Boron Chromate Thinner
Butyl Acetate (n) Wash Water
Calcium Chromate
Calcium resinate
Ceric ammonium nitrate
Ferric oxide
Graphite
Hydrochloric acid
Lacquer (incl. black, clear)
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PRODUCT CATEGORY: Detonators, Fuzes, and Boosters Continued
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Lacquer thinner
Lead Azide
Lead Carbonate
Lead dioxide
Lead styphnate
Lead styphnate, basic
Potassium nitrate
Sodium chloride
Sodium hydroxide
Tetracene
Xylene substitute solvent
______________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Detonators, Fuzes, and Boosters
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Zirconium
______________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Flares and Signal Cartridges
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
MK 24 mod 4, MK 4 Signal Hycar Acetone
Cartridge, W-9 and W-17 Laminal 4116 Aluminum Sulfate
Sidewinder Practice Signals Viton A Application Tubes
Acetone Butyl Acetate
Aluminum Sulfate Cobalt Sulfate
Barlum Chromate Contaminated Paper
Black Powder Contaminated Tools
Boron Expended Test Items
Butyl acetate (n) Ferrous Sulfate
Cobelt naphthenate Hydrochloric Acid
Copper sulfate Pellets
Ferrous Sulfate Powders
Hexane Red Phosphorous
Lead carbonate Reject Lines
Lead dioxide Smokeless Powder
Lead, red Sodium Sulfate
Magnesium Solids
Methyl ethyl ketone Solvents
Nitro cellulose Titanium Dioxide
Paint (primer + enamel) Varnish
Phosphorous, red stabilized Wash Water
Polytetraflorethylene
Potassium perchlorate
Shotgun primer
Smokeless powder
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
69
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Flares and Signal Cartridge Continued
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Sodium bicarbonate
Sodium sulfate
Sulfuric acid
Titanium dioxide
Titanium tetrachloride
Varnish
______________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Glow Plugs, Tracer, and Pyrophoric Pellets
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
23mm Tracer Pellet, HEI-T-TP, RDX Contaminated Paper
MTV Type I, II and III, APD-S, Viton A Contaminated Tools
M221 Acetone Expended Test Items
Aluminum Pellets
Aluminum Oxides Powder Wash Water
Barlum Chromate Powders
Black Powder Reject Units
Boron Solvents
Calcium resinate
Carbon black
Ethyl alcohol
Ethyl cellulose
Graphite
Hexane
Isopropyl alcohol
Magnesium
Polytetrafluoroethylene
Potassium perchlorate
Strontium nitrate
Strontium peroxide
Tetrachloroethylene
Trichloroethane (1, 1, 1-)
Trichloroethylene
Vegetable oil
______________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Igniters, Ignition Compositions and Explosive Bolts
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Bp-1, mk 192 Igniter, IB-52 Laminal 4116 Contaminated Paper
Ignition Composition, MK 125 Acetone Expended Test Items
Igniter MK 1 mod 1 Squib, MK Barium chromate Lacquer
17 Torpedo Igniter Benzene Methylene Chloride
Black powder Pellets
Boron Powders
Calcium resinate Rags
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
70
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Igniters, Ignition Compositions and Explosive Bolts Continued
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Calcium stearate Solvents
Diazodinitrophenol Thinner
Dibutyl phthalate
Diphenyl amine
Epoxy polyamide
Ethyl alcohol
Ethyl cellulose
Graphite
Lacquer (incl. black, clear)
Lacquer thinner
Lead chromate
Magnesium
Manganese
Methylene chloride
Nitro cellulose
Nitrostarch
Pluronic flake
Polyvinyl acetate
Potassium chlorate
Potassium nitrate
Potassium perchlorate
Smokeless powder
Titanium
Tricresyl phosphate
Tungsten ______________________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Igniters, Ignition Compositions, and Explosive Bolts
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Vinyl acetate/vinyl chloride copolymer
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Power Charges
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Baker #420, Baker Oil Tool asphalt Bulk Bakalets
Carbon black Bulk Solids
Dimer acid disocyanate Contaminated Paper
Dioctyl adipate Contaminated Tools
Hydroxyl-terminated- Expended Test Items
polybutadiene
Isophorone dlisocyanate Filed Tubes
Kerosene Powders
Oxamide Solvents
Potassium perchlorate
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
71
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Power Charges Continued
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Strontium nitrate
Sulfur
Tetrachloroethylene
Trichlorethane (1, 1, 1-)
Trichloroethylene
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Rocket Motors and Gas Generators
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Sidewinder, Chaparrel, JATO, PAPI Ammonium Perchlorate Water
Spin Motor, MC3003, Yardney PETN Mixed Pyrotechnics
TMAP Neutralized Salts
TMP Paint
VYLP binder Propellent Contaminated Paper
XYHL copolymer Propellent Contaminated Tools
Zytel-61 Resins
Acetone Sand
Aliphatic Polyurethane Seal Rite Containers
Aluminum Solvents
Aluminum oxide Stripper
Ammonium dichromate
Ammonium perchlorate
Antimony sufide
Barium chromate
Barium nitrate
Benzene
Boron
Butyl acetate (n)
Butylcarbitol formal
Butylcatechol (tertiary)
Carbon black
Carboxyl-terminated polybutadiene
Ceric ammonium nitrate
Chromium octoate
Cobait naphthenate
Copper chromate
Copper chromite
Cumene hydroperoxide
Diarytanilide yellow
Dlatomaceous earth
Dloctyl adipate
Dlphenyl guankline
Epoxy resin
Ethyl cellulose
Ferric oxide
Graphite
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
72
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Rocket Motors and Gas Generators Continued
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Grease
Hydrochloric acid
Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene
Isophorane disocyanate
Isopropyl alcohol
Lead azid
Lead carbonate
Lead dioxide
Lead styphnate
Lead styphnate, basic
Lead thiocyanate
Lecithin
Lupersol
Magnesium
Magnesium Oxide
Methanol
Methyl azindinyl phosphoric oxide
Methyl ethyl ketone
Nitric acid
Nitro guanidine
Oxamide
Paint (primer +enamel)
Polybutadiene butarez
Polyester resin
Polysulfide monomer
Polytetrafluoroethylene
Potassium nitrate
Potassium perchlorate
Quinine dioxime (para)
Slilca
Sodium chloride
Sodium hydroxide
Strontium nitrate
Styrene monomer
Sulfur
Sylmar resin
Tetracene
Tetrachloroethylene
Tetranitrocarbazole
Thread locking compound
Trichloroethane (1,1,1-)
Trichloroethylene
Trisodium phosphate
Tungsten
Varnish
Zinc chromate
Zirconium
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
Whittaker Corporation, Bermite Facility -2004 Public Participation Plan
73
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Rocket Motors and Gas Generators Continued
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Zirconium carbide
______________________________________________________________________________
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Unspecified/unknown
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Acrylonitrile
Barium dioxide
Calcium silicide
Copper (powder)
Ferric sulfide
Iron carbonyl (powder)
Nitronaphthalene (1-)
Polybutadiene (cis-)
Potassium chloride
Sodium citrate
Sodium stearate
Tetraethylenepentamine
Tetryl
Toluidine
Trinitrotoluene
Triphenyl
Zinc stearate
PRODUCT CATEGORY: Missile Main Charges
PRODUCT NAMES: CHEMICAL NAME WASTE/BY-PRODUCT
Sidewinder and Chaparral PBXN-3 Contaminated
Missile
Paper
Main Charges RDX Contaminated Tools
Aluminum Neutralizing Solution
Aluminum oxcides Powders
Barium nitrate Reject Units
Bituminous Solvent Thinner
Calcium stearate
Lacquer (incl. black, clear)
Lacquer thinner
Paint (primer + enamel)
Paraffin
Cal/EPA, DTSC, Region 3, 2004, Whittaker-Bermite Public Participation Plan
