Hundreds demand DHEC refuse permit to CWS

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Hundreds of people filled an auditorium at the Department of Health and Environmental Control Tuesday night. They came out to voice concerns about DHEC’s reissue of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System to the Carolina Water Service I-20 facility. DHEC says the proposed permit applies stricter limitations based on new data and strengthens water quality. Though, everyone who spoke at the public hearing says that’s not good enough; the permit needs to be denied. One of the issues, is that CWS never tied into the City of Lexington’s sewer system, as it was mandated in 1999. DHEC says it does not have the authority to make Lexington and CWS reach a connection agreement. Here is a statement from Elizabeth Dieck, DHEC’s Director of Environmental Affairs, regarding the hearing: “DHEC recognizes the public‘s interest in this matter and understands how critical our role is in protecting South Carolina’s water quality. We are pleased with this evening‘s turnout. All public comments will be taken into consideration in the final permit decision.” If you missed the meeting tonight, you have until September 1 to make your voice heard. Click on the link to learn how. http://www.scdhec.gov/Environment/WaterQuality/NPDES/CarolinaWater/