On Monday, July 30, 2018, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) wrote to the EPA, asking them to conduct environmental testing on the waste pile in Vernon, New Jersey. Gottheimer traveled with Vernon Mayor Harry Shortway, Jr. to assess the waste pile first-hand, concluding that “this is the definition of solid waste,” with a particular concern for the potential of carcinogens often found in such demolition debris.

Coverage of the letter and visit by the New Jersey Herald can be found HERE. Gottheimer’s letter to the EPA can be found HERE.

“Dumping potentially contaminated waste next to Vernon’s lakes is a threat to community. The EPA needs to step in to help our local officials combat this before anything leaches into our water supply or causes lasting environmental damage. Specifically, we need discrete environmental testing, which I believe is necessary to assess any chemical compounds or hazmat-level contamination,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “The property owner here has a well-known history. He’s been convicted of dumping waste across state lines, and has been issued a stop-work order. I am very concerned for the safety and health of the residents of Vernon.”