Document 3Jw5YMLVvJ1aon3nGgKadn7Jx
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION 10
)
IN THE MATTER OF:
)
)
Portland Harbor Superfund Site
)
) [Names of Respondents (if many, reference )
attached list)],
)
)
Respondents
)
)
Proceeding Under Sections 104, 107
)
and 122 of the Comprehensive
)
Environmental Response, Compensation, )
and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. 9604,
)
9607 and 9622
)
_______________________________________ )
CERCLA Docket No.
ADMINISTRATIVE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND ORDER ON CONSENT FOR PRE-REMEDIAL DESIGN INVESTIGATION AND BASELINE SAMPLING
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
Tier 1
ED 002061 00116500-00001
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII. VIII. IX. X. XI. XII. XIII. XIV. XV. XVI. XVII. XVIII. XIX. XX. XXI. XXII. XXIII. XXIV. XXV. XXVI. XXVII.
JURISDICTION AND GENERAL PROVISIONS...................................................... 3 PARTIES BOUND....................................................................................................... 3 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE....................................................................................... DEFINITIONS.............................................................................................................. 4 FINDINGS OF FACT................................................................................................... 4 CONCLUSIONS OF LAW AND DETERMINATIONS...........................................11 SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND ORDER..........................................................11 PERFORMANCE OF THE WORK.................... PROPERTY REQUIREMENTS......................... ACCESS TO INFORMATION........................... RECORD RETENTION...................................... COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LAW S............. PAYMENT OF RESPONSE COSTS.................. DISPUTE RESOLUTION................................... FORCE MAJEURE............................................. STIPULATED PENALTIES............................... COVENANTS BY EPA...................................... RESERVATIONS OF RIGHTS BY EPA........... COVENANTS BY RESPONDENTS.................. OTHER CLAIMS................................................ EFFECT OF SETTLEMENT/CONTRIBUTION INDEMNIFICATION.......................................... INSURANCE....................................................... FINANCIAL ASSURANCE............................... INTEGRATION/APPENDICES......................... MODIFICATION................................................ EFFECTIVE DATE.............................................
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
I. JURISDICTION AND GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1. This Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order on Consent ("Settlement") is entered into voluntarily by the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and [insert names or attach list of Respondents] ("Respondents"). This Settlement provides for the Respondents' performance of a Pre-Remedial Design site-wide-investigation and baseline sampling program (PDI) and the payment of certain response costs incurred by the EPA and- the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ), aad-'-the-TribaJ-G-ev-emments-at-er. in connection with the PDI Work to take place between November of 2017 and March of 2019 in the in-river portion of the Portland Harbor Superfund Site (the "Site") in Portland, Oregon.
1.2. This Settlement is issued under the authority vested in the President of the United States by Sections 104, 107, and 122 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, 42 U.S.C. 9604, 9607, and 9622 ("CERCLA"). This authority was delegated to the EPA Administrator on January 23, 1987 by Executive Order 12580, 52 Fed. Reg. 2923 (Jan. 29, 1987), and further delegated to the EPA Regional Administrators by EPA Delegation Nos. 14-14-C (Administrative Actions Through Consent Orders, Apr. 15, 1994) and 14-14-D (Cost Recovery Non-Judicial Agreements and Administrative Consent Orders, May 11, 1994). This authority has been re-delegated by the Region 10, Regional Administrator to the Region 10, Director, Environmental Cleanup Office, and Unit Managers thereunder by EPA Delegation R10 14-14C(1).
4-3-7---- in-ac6erd-a-n6e-wi-t-h-Se6t-i-eH--l-2-2-(t-)(-l-)-ef-E-R-L-A-;-4-2-U-.-S-:-:--9-62-2-(j-)(-l-)^A-fteti6ed-fhe-fiatttFal-fesettf6e4mstee&-f9P4he-ReFtkad-IfafbefSke-eTfiegetiatieas-withRespondeB-t-s-r-ega-r-di-H-g-t-he-rel-&a-se-8f-h-a-z-a-rd-6u-s-s-u-l>s-t-a-ne-es-t-h-at-m-a-y-h-a-&-f&siil-ted-i-B-i-Bj-u-ryt e -th-e-n-atoFa-l--re-seuree-s -u-nder-fed-e-rai--t-ru-st-ee-s-hi-p-.-..E-P-A-en-eeurag6d-th-&-test-ee(s-)-te p-artlei-parte-l-n-the-H-e-geti-ati-e-H-ef-thi-s-Sett-i-e-meH-t-eeB-sl-st-e-B-t-wit-h-t-he-p-Foeess-a-greed-te-i-n-the 2001 Memorandum of Understanding related to the Site, as amended.
1.4. EPA and Respondents recognize that this Settlement has been negotiated in good faith and that the actions undertaken by Respondents in accordance with this Settlement do not constitute an admission of any liability. Respondents do not admit, and retain the right to controvert in any subsequent proceedings other than proceedings to implement or enforce this Settlement, the validity of the findings of facts, conclusions of law, and determinations in Sections V (Findings of Fact) and VI (Conclusions of Law and Determinations) of this Settlement. Respondents agree to comply with and be bound by the terms of this Settlement and further agree that they will not contest the basis or validity of this Settlement or its terms.
II. PARTIES BOUND
2.1.
This Settlement is binding upon EPA and upon Respondents and their successors,
and assigns. Any change in ownership or corporate status of a Respondent including, but not
limited to, any transfer of assets or real or personal property shall not alter such Respondent's
responsibilities under this Settlement.
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
2.2. Respondents are jointly and severally liable foragree to carrying out all activities requked -bvagreed to in this Settlement. In the event of the insolvency or other failure of any Respondent to implement the requirements of this Settlement, the remaining Respondents shall complete all such requirements.
2.3. Each undersigned representative of Respondents certifies that he or she is fully authorized to enter into the terms and conditions of this Settlement and to execute and legally bind Respondents to this Settlement.
2.4. Respondents shall provide a copy of this Settlement to each contractor hired to perform the Work required by this Settlement and to each person representing any Respondents with respect to the Site or the Work, and shall condition all contracts entered into hereunder upon performance of the Work in conformity with the terms of this Settlement. Respondents or their contractors shall provide written notice of the Settlement to all subcontractors hired to perform any portion of the Work required by this Settlement. Respondents shall nonetheless be responsible for ensuring that their contractors and subcontractors perform the Work in accordance with the terms of this Settlement.
III. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
3.1. In entering into this Settlement, the objectives of the Parties are to: (a) implement investigation baseline sampling to update existing site-wide data; (b) t-e-begin-leng-termcollect and evaluate trend analysis data gathering; (c) refine the delineation of Sediment Management Areas-te-begin-the-remediakdesign-preeess; (d) collect and analyze data to facilitate completion of the third-party allocation amongst potentially responsible parties ("PRPs"); (e) collect and evaluate additional data regarding upstream and urban background conditions; (fe) provide for recovery of response-amL oversight costs incurred by EPA and; ODEQ, and the Tribal Gevemmentvwith respect to this Settlement; and (gf) te-accomplish the objectives further described in the Statement of Work ("SOW") which is incorporated into this Settlement by this reference and made a part hereof as if fully set forth herein.
IV. DEFINITIONS
4.1. Unless otherwise expressly provided in this Settlement, terms used in this Settlement that are defined in CERCLA or in regulations promulgated under CERCLA shall have the meaning assigned to them in CERCLA or in such regulations. Whenever terms listed below are used in this Settlement or its attached appendices, the following definitions shall apply:
"CERCLA" shall mean the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, 42 U.S.C. 9601-9675.
"Day" or "day" shall mean a calendar day. In computing any period of time under this Settlement, where the last day would fall on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal or State holiday, the period shall run until the close of business of the next working day.
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
"Effective Date" shall mean the effective date of this Settlement as provided in Section XXVII.
"EPA" shall mean the United States Environmental Protection Agency and its successor departments, agencies, or instrumentalities.
"EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund" shall mean the Hazardous Substance Superfund established by the Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. 9507.
"EPA Future ResponseOversight Costs" shall mean only thoseaU costs, includingbtrt aet-iimited-te. - direct and indirect costs, that the EPA incurs in reviewing or developing deliverables submitted pursuant to this Settlement, in overseeing implementation of the Work, or otherwise implementing, overseeing, or enforcing this Settlement, including but not limited to, payroll costs, contractor costs, travel costs, laboratory costsr eooperative as-slsfance-granf-coste-related-te-oversi-ght-ef-the-W-erk-under-thi-s-Settl&ment:; the costs incurred pursuant to Section IX (Property Requirements) (including, but not limited to, cost of attorney time and any monies paid to secure or enforce access, 18.3 (Work Takeover), 8.3 (Emergencies and Releases), % 24.6 (Access to Financial Assurance),} 8.4 (Eoffinttmity | .H.Vel.vem-eiit--Pte-a--(i-ae4u4irrg--tke--60ste--efarw --t-e6h-H46ak-a-ssi-sta-a6e--g-Fa-H-t--u-ad-e-r---Seeti-e-H--44-7-(e) of-GERGLAy-dg-Uv-SvGv-f-^ -l-^ ^ ))^ and the costs incurred by the EPA in enforcing the terms of this Settlement, including all costs incurred in connection with Dispute Resolution pursuant to Section XIV (Dispute Resolution)^ and all litigation costs. Future Response -es-ts-sh-al4-al-se-4fl-6-l-ud-&--a-14-fat-&r-i-m-Re-speH-se--e-st-S;-a-H-l-ai-l-feterest-efl-t-h-ese-P-a-st-Res-pefrse Gosts-Respondents-have agreed to pay tta4er-th-is-Agreement-tbat-has--aeeroed-pttrsuant-to 42-U^R^L4^--9607{a)-duriag4he|>eH>dfremJaauary4Q;2f)47te th&Effeet4veDate:
"EPA Past Response Costs" shall mean all costs not inconsistent with the NCP, including direct and indirect costs, that the EPA paid at or in connection with the Site in developing the Statement of Work and Sampling and Analysis Plan attached to and incorporated into this Settlement and charged to account 10PX beginning March 1, 2017January 10, 2017. and through July 6, 2017, plus Interest on all such costs through such date.
"Interest" shall mean interest at the rate specified for interest on investments of the EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund established by 26 U.S.C. 9507, compounded annually on October 1 of each year, in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 9607(a). The applicable rate of interest shall be the rate in effect at the time the interest accrues. The rate of interest is subject to change on October 1 of each year. Rates are available online at https://www.epa.gov/superfund/superfund-interest-rates.
"Interim Response Costs" shall mean all costs, including, but not limited to, direct and indirect costs: (a) paid by the EPA in connection with negotiating this Settlement between July 6, 2017 and the Effective Date, or (b) incurred prior to the Effective Date, but paid after that date.
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
"National Contingency Plan" or "NCP" shall mean the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan promulgated pursuant to Section 105 of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9605, codified at 40 C.F.R. Part 300, and any amendments thereto.
"Non-Settling Owner" shall mean any person, other than a Respondent, that owns or controls any Affected Property, including [insert names]. The clause "Non-Settling Owner's Affected Property" means Affected Property owned or controlled by Non-Settling Owner.
"ODEQ" shall mean the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and any successor departments or agencies of the State.
"ODEQ Oversight Respen-se-Costs" shall mean only those-al4 direct and indirect costs that ODEQ incurs in coordinating and consulting with EPA in conjunction with EPA's planning and implementation of this Settlement, from March 1,2017 through the date of completion of all Work agreed to by the Respondents under Section VIII of this Settlement. ODEQ Oversight Response Costs are only those costs incurred to fulfill the coordination and consultation role with EPA regarding implementation recHiiremeffls of this Settlement, including review of plans, reports and assessments prepared pursuant to this Settlement, but excluding any costs related to natural resource damages assessments, liability or restoration or uplands investigation, or source control. ODEQ Oversight Response-Costs that are not inconsistent with the NCP, 40 C.F.R. Part 300, m & are recoverable response costs pursuant to Sections 104 and 107 of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9604 and 9607. ODEQ Oversight Response Costs shall not include the costs of oversight or data collected by ODEQ concerning any other response action or Settlement Agreement associated with the Site.
"Owner Respondent" shall mean any Respondent that owns or controls any Affected Property, including [insert names]. The clause "Owner Respondent's Affected Property" means Affected Property owned or controlled by Owner Respondent.
"Paragraph" or "][" shall mean a portion of this Settlement identified by an Arabic numeral or an upper or lower case letter.
"Parties" shall mean EPA and Respondents.
"Portland Harbor Special Account" shall mean the special account within the EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund, established for the Site by EPA pursuant to Section 122(b)(3) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9622(b)(3) through prior settlements related to the Site.
"Portland Harbor Superfund Site" or "Site" for purposes of this Settlement shall mean the in-river portion of the site in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon listed on the National Priorities List ("NPL^) on December 1, 2000. 65 Fed. Reg. 75179-01 and for which a final remedy was selected in the January 2017 Record of Decision. As described in the Record of Decision, the Site extends in-river from approximately river mile ("RM") 1.9 to 11.8 and is depicted generally on the map attached as Appendix B.
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
Tier 1
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
"RCRA" shall mean the Solid Waste Disposal Act, 42 U.S.C. 6901-6992 (also known as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act).
"Record of Decision" or "ROD" shall mean the EPA Record of Decision relating to the Site, signed on January 3, 2017, by the Administrator of EPA, and all attachments thereto. A copy of the ROD can be found at https://www3.epa.gov/regionl0/pdf/ph/sitewide/record-of-decision-i an2017.pdf.
"Respondents" shall mean [insert names of Respondents] [insert if applicable: those Parties identified in Appendix C.]
"Section" shall mean a portion of this Settlement identified by a Roman numeral.
"Settlement" shall mean this Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order on Consent and all appendices attached hereto (listed in Section XXV (Integration/Appendices)). In the event of conflict between this Settlement and any appendix, this Settlement shall control.
"Sampling and Analysis Plan" or "SAP" shall mean the document describing the site-wide baseline investigation sampling, laboratory analysis, and sam-pl-mg-r-el-atod-other activities that EPA and Respondents must----.-have agreed t-owill be performed under this Settlement, as summarized in the PDI Work Plan, which is an appendix to the Statement of Work attached as Appendix A to this Settlement.
"Selected Remedy" [EPA to provide definition of capitalized term used in sections 5.1.8 and 5,1.141
"State" shall mean the State of Oregon.
"Statement of Work" or "SOW" shall mean the document describing the activities that EPA and Respondents have must-agreed will be te-performed to implement the sitewide-ha-sel-i-n-ePDI sampling and other Work, which is attached as Appendix A to this Settlement.
"Supervising Contractor" shall mean the principal contractor retained by Respondents to supervise and direct the implementation of the Work under this Settlement.
"Transfer" shall mean to sell, assign, convey, lease, mortgage, or grant a security interest in, or where used as a noun, a sale, assignment, conveyance, or other disposition of any interest by operation of law or otherwise.
-T-Bbai-Ge&rB-m-eH-ts"--sh-ai-l--mea-n-the--6nfed-&rated--Trib-es---aBd-Bands--o f -the-- a -ka-m-a N-a-t-i-eny-t-he---Cen-fede-m-t-ed---T4ibe-s--ef--the-Lfrand--Reade-- -em-T-miBi-t-y---e-f--Qre-goa;--th-e--eB-fe-de-rated Tribea-ef-Sdete-fadi-arns-rthe-CeHfederat-ed-TBdes-effhe-Uffl-aalla-fadiaB-Reserv-atien-i-the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, and the Nez Perce Tribe.
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
References to "Tribal Governments" in this Settlement Agreement may be a reference to an
evmffiB-ts--a-nd--th-e-i-r--m-|>ieye-s;---age-gt%--een-tra-e-ter-s----eensH-l-ta-nt-s---aB4--ethr--a-H-tberi-zed fepFesentafiveabBctgbmeeordmahBg-aBd-eeBrmttfflg-wrth-EPAhn-eeBjuBettrm-wrtfa-EPAA piarming and implementation of this Settlement. Tribal Response Costs are only those costs
S6tt-l-e-meH%---mel-iid.ffl-g--iwkw--0f--piaHS-;---Fep0fts--a-n-d--a-ssessffl-e-nt-s--p-Fepa-F6d---pH-F-sttan-t--t-0--thi-s
budgutgT-bubexUuding-any-e^stgreiated-tematurahreseurca^amagagarSsessffluntSrhabihfy-er restoration. Tribal Response Costs are not inconsistent with the NCP, 40 C.F.R. Part 300, and are
and-9607-.-vTribal-Respon-se- e sts--s-bal-l--not-inlude-tbe -eests--o f -e v ersi-ght-or-data-gatbeFed--b-y
Se-ttteH--e-F-t---AeFe6 ffi-F-t---a-sse4ate---wi-t-b--#m---Si-t-e--OF--aB-v---are-a-s-mrt-si-de---e-f--th6 --Site---as--d-fiB6 d--i-n--th-i-s Settlement:
"United States" shall mean the United States of America and each department, agency, and instrumentality of the United States, including EPA and any federal natural resource trustee for the PeFt-l-a-n-dTiaF-beFSite.
"Waste Material" shall mean (1) any "hazardous substance" under Section 101(14) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9601(14); (2) any "pollutant or contaminant" under Section 101(33) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9601(33); (3) any "solid waste" under Section 1004(27) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C. 6903(27); and (4) any "hazardous substance" under ORS 465.200 et seq.
"Work" shall mean all activities and obligations that EPA and Respondents are-have agreed will be regufred-te-performed pursuant to the SOW and the Work Plan under this Settlement, except those required by Section XI (Record Retention).
"Work Plan" shall mean the document describing all of the specific tasks that constitute the PDI Work that EPA and Respondents have agreed will be performed under this Settlement, which is an appendix to the Statement of Work attached as Appendix A to this Settlement.
V. FINDINGS OF FACT
5.1. EPA finds the following facts, which Respondents neither admit nor deny:
5.1.1.
Historical industrial, commercial, agricultural municipal, and residential
practices and releases of contaminants dating back to the early 1900s contributed to the majorit;
ef ther observed chemical distribution of sediments within the Site. Historical sources
responsible for the existing contamination include, but are not limited to: ship building, repair
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
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PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
and dismantling; wood treatment and lumber milling; storage of bulk fuels and manufactured gas plant (MGP) waste; chemical manufacturing and storage; metal recycling, production and fabrication; steel mills, smelters and foundries; electrical production and distribution; municipal combined sewer overflows; and stormwater from industrial, commercial, transportation, residential and agricultural land uses. Operations that continue to exist today include: bulk fuel storage; barge building; ship repair; automobile scrapping; recycling; steel manufacturing; cement manufacturing; operation and repair of electrical transformers; and many smaller industrial operations, as well as other commercial, agricultural, municipal, and residential practices.
5.1.2. On December 1, 2000, the Portland Harbor Superfund Site was listed on the National Priorities List due mainly to concerns about contamination in the sediments and the potential risks to human health and the environment from consuming fish. The most widespread contaminants found at the Site include, but are not limited to, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and dioxins/furans.
5.1.3. In 2001, EPA entered into a Memorandum of Understanding for the Portland Harbor Site (the "MOU") with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality ("ODEQ"), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration within the Department of Commerce, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service within the Department of the Interior, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and certain tribal govemments-.----the--en-fe-le-r-at-ed----U-i-be-s and--Ba-Hd-s--e f-th-&- -ak-am-a-N-ationr th-e--8efederated-Tri-b&s-6f-the--Gra-Hd-K-ende--Gomm-u-mty-6f 0 ^g e% -the---Cnfedera-te-d--Tribes--e f--Si-l-e-tz--fad-i-a-n-S;--th-e--en-fe-de-rated--T-i4-be-s--ef-the--Umati41a fadiaH-Reseswati-enr-the-Cenfederated-Tri-bes-effhe-Warm-SpriHga-Reserv-artioB-efOregonr-arnd the Nez Perce Tribe. The MOU, among other things, established the roles and responsibilities between EPA and ODEQ on managing the upland and in-river portions of the Site andt set up a framework for technical and legal coordination among EPA and the Natural Resource Trustees; aHd-relati-e-te-the-T-ri-bal-e-emm-ea-ts-it-seught-to-a6kaowl-ed-ge-the-fed-&rakgO&ra-m-en-t1s -9R-sa-l-tatie n --r-eg-u-i-r8-m8-nt-s--eeRee-ming-4h8---Pefi-l-an^^ Ti4ba:l-GeernmHt:Si -partie4patlon4n-the-r&spense-a6tieHa-a:t-the-Pertland-HarbeF-Superfend-Rrte.
5.1.4.
--The-Tfib-ai-Gov-emments-h-ave-tr-eaty-feserved-ri-ghts-afld-r-eseu-r-ees-and
0theF-ftght-sr i-nt-e-Fester-0F--f-e-seuf-6es---m-the---Site-.---Te--Nati0naI--Oea-niG-and--Atm-0sph-8i40
Ad-m4nl-stration-;-the-Uei-ted-S-tat&s-D&partm&n-t-ef-th-&-fa-t&eo^-the-Qr-egon-De|>a-rtment-ef
Fi-sh--&--WTl-d-lifej---and---t-h8---T-e-bakGev-e-rn-m-e-R-t-s--are--d-e-si-gBated--Nato-rai--R&s0uree--T-m-st8-e-s
everseei-ngghe-asa&ssment-ef-narfarak-r&sottree-dam-ages-at-the-Slter-Teghe-extent
practicable, and if consistent with the objectives of the site-wide baseline sampling described
herelnv'fee-w8iAu.ndef--th4s--Settie-m-0H-t--wil4--be--68nd.u6ted.--so--as-te--be--6eerd-mated--w4t-h--an-y-nafaral-
fe-soufee-dafflage-ass-essm-ent-and-Fest-OFation-efthe-Pert-land-Ha-Fb-OF-SH-peffund-SiteT-The-TFibal
GeeeFments-and-the-fed-&ral-aad-atat&-N-at-uFal-ResHi-ree-T-mstees-wiM-be-p-r0-ided-
an--0p-pertuBi-t-y---te-iw iew--aBd--c0m-me-gt--on--piaB-Sy-F^pert-s?--a-nd--et-h8F-deli-v-8Fab-l-e-s--sub-m4tt-8d--by-
RespoBdeiFts-te-EPA-under-thia-SettlemeHt:-
5.1.5. A remedial investigation and feasibility study ("RI/FS';) was initiated in 2001 and completed in 2017. As part of the RI/FS, baseline human health and ecological risk
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assessments were conducted to estimate the current and future effects of contaminants in sediments, surface water, groundwater seeps, and fish tissue on human health and the environment. The risk assessments provided the basis for taking action and identified the contaminants of potential concern ("COPCs") and exposure pathways that the remedial action should address.
5.1.6.
The baseline human health risk assessment ("BHHRA") estimated cancer
risks and noncancer health hazards from exposures to a set of chemicals in sediments (both
beach and in-river), surface water, groundwater seeps, and fish tissue from samples collected at
the Site.
5.1.7. The baseline ecological risk assessment ("BERA") estimated risks to aquatic and aquatic-dependent species exposed to hazardous substances associated with the in river Willamette River portion of the Site.
5.1.8. The BHHRA and BERA concluded that contamination within the Site poses unacceptable risks to human health and the environment from numerous contaminants of potential concern in surface water, groundwater, sediment, and fish tissue. The fiak selected remedy reduced the COPCs to 64 contaminants of concern ("COCs") that contribute the most significant amount of risk to the human and ecological receptors. See ROD, Appendix II, Tables 1--5.
5.1.9.
A subset of the COCs, called focused COCs, was developed in order to
simplify analysis and develop and evaluate and-evalaatien-of-remedial alternatives for the Site.
The focused COCs include PCBs, PAHs, dioxins and furans, and DDx; and they contribute the
most significant amount of site-wide risk to human and ecological receptors.
-.4-.-l-C:-PB-s-a-re-el-a-ssifi-ed-as-pmb-ab-l-e-hum-an-6ar6i-H-6gens-.-hiMr&H-&M|>6sed-to P-C-&s--m-ay--d-e-elep4ea-e -H-Rg---aBd--b-eh-a--i-er-a-l---f>r-ebiem-s4ate-r--m humaH--l-mffl-ttne--SSt:&m---a:nd--skl-n7-espeei-a:14y-i-n--6hikt--reeeptfc>rs7-aHd---may--6a.u-se--eaneeF-l-n--peepi7 Nursing infants can be exposed to PCBs in breast milk. PCBs can also bioaccumulate in fish, s-heM44sh-;-and-ma-m-m-a-l-s-.-fe-b-i-rd-s-a-nl-ffl-am-mais-;-P-B-s-6-an-6a-use-a-d-er-s&-effet-s-sueh-a-s-anemi-a and-injuFies-te-the-liveF^steffiaeh^a-nd-th-yFoid-g-l-andv-PGB-s-alse-ean-eause-pFebkms-wit-h-the immu-i-i-&-system-;--beha-i-8ral--preb-l-e-m-S7-aad-i-mpaired--repi>d-uet4eH-:-
------------------ .rl-rI4.:-PAHs-are-h-amaa-hea:lth-and-e)iog4ea:1-COs-:-PAHs-aFe-sus-|?e4ed-hu-man carcinogens with potential to cause lung, skin, and bladder cancers with occupational exposure. Amm-al---sfad4es--shew---that--eertai-H---P-A44s--affeet---th'e--h'effl-at-epei'eti-67-i-m-m-une;---repFed-uet4'e--and neuf0l0gi-0 -syste-ms-and-ause-deve40pfflen-t-a4-effe0ts-.--4'hey--6an--6ause-4nhi:bited-Fepf0di-i-eti:0m delayed-em-eigeeee;---sedim-&rrt-a8idan6e;--a-n4-moFt:-a4ity:--fe-fi-shv--PAHs-6aiise-i-i-eF-abn0H-n-a4it4es aad4-mpairmen-t--eftbe-4-m-mu-n-e---sy-ste-m-.-
---------5.1.12. Dioxins and furans are human health and ecological COCs. Toxic effects in hi-iffians4-H-6l-ule-F-ep-redi-i-6tlve-pr8blem-sr pfebl-&m-s4-H-fet-al-4&el0pm'ent-eF-&afl-0bi4lbeed-.
im-mttne -system-damage ;-aBd-aB6erv-Nu-rs-tng4-nfants-ean-be-ex -p osed-tO"dioxiBs-and-fufans4-n
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breast milk. Dioxins and furans can bioaccumulate in fish, shellfish, and mammals. Animal
rffe6t-s-4R6k-i4&-4 e-elopm 'eirt-al-aRd-r-ep-red-H-6t-i-e--pi:eb k m -sr bem er-rbagifl-g;-a-Hl4-m-mi-i-E-&-systeffl-
p-Feb-l-e-ffl-s-:
----------;-l-:4T-:--0 0 -Xy-wh-i-eb--re-|aresegte--eol4aeti-vel-y---OOT---a-n44-t-s--pri-m-a-iy--toakdew a--|>mdiie-ts dihk>FedighenyldiBh4efeethaBeTBDD)-nnb-riihlerediphByhiihlereethBnB-4DDE)r arB4mman health and ecological COCs. DDT is considered a possible human carcinogen. DDT and DDE ara-steFed-i-a-tbe--bely'-s-fatty-ti-ssaesv-fe-pfegaa-Ht-weE:FeHr BD-T-aad.-BOE-aaa-ba--passad-te--tha fetoS:-Nursi-n g-in fant&"ean-be-ex p esed-to-DDx-tn-breast--m ilk-:-Laboratory-animal--stndies--sh0w e d
efibets-OB-tbed-i-v-eF-aed-repfedaab-e a -.-Thesa-eeffipeiieds-e-ae-aeew Halate-i-B-fislg-sbeHfiab-aad
FHam-r-Fi-al-s;--aad--aaB--eaB-se--ad-verse---re-|a i^ -ttet4-va--ei4e-t-s---stteli---as--e-g-g-sbe41---tbii-i-Bi-B-g---i-B--b-iFb-s-.-
5.1.14. The Selected Remedy requires active remediation (dredging, capping and enhanced natural recovery) at areas exceeding the remedial action levels ("RALs") for the focused COCs and contaminated FiveFbanks adjacent te those areas^. The Selected Remedy allows approximately 1,774 acres of sediment to recover naturally. The Selected Remedy is estimated to take 13 years to construct.
5.1.15. One of the first steps in implementing the ROD is to implement site-wide investigation baseline sampling to update existing data, begin long-term trend analysis data gatheri-ngcollecting, and further refine and delineate Sediment Management Areas in order to assist the remedial design process and the PRPs' allocation process.
5.1.16. The Work to be performed under this Settlement is necessary prior to the commencement of the remedial design phase and is required for the future iimplementation of the ROD and to thi-s-Settlem-enth-s-necess-arv-tev-protect public health or welfare or the environment from unacceptable risks posed by a-ctual-of-^-t-hrea-ten-ed-.-releases of hazardous substances into the environment and pollutants or contaminants which may present an imminent and substantial endangerment to the public health or welfare.
5.1.17. Respondents have owned or operated facilities adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund Site and, pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, have agreed to step forward to conduct the PDI Work to move the overall project forward, to obtain necessary data required before remedial design work can commence and seto ensure that the allocation among PRPs can be effectuated....... ....................f4n4ude-mferma-hen-aheut-respeHd-&nts-]v
VI. CONCLUSIONS OF LAW AND DETERMINATIONS
6.1.
Based on the Findings of Fact set forth above and the administrative record, EPA
has determined that:
6.1.1.
The Portland Harbor Superfund Site is a "facility" as defined by Section
101(9) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9601(9).
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6.1.2. The contamination found at the Site, as identified in the Findings of Fact above, includes [a] "hazardous substance(s)" as defined by Section 101(14) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9601(14).
6.1.3. Each Respondent is a "person" as defined by Section 101(21) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9601(21).
6.1.4.
Each Respondent is a potentially responsible party under Section 107(a) of
CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9607(a). and has agreed to enter into this Settlement and perform the
Work agreed upon in this Settlement to advance the purposes enumerated in Section 3.1 above.
....................... Respen-den-ts---[iiisrt--ii-a-mes-}--a-Fe--th-e--i%w-n-ef(-s)"-a-nd-/0F
l:j...S.;C-.-------9-60-l-(-2-0-);--and--w-i-thi-H--the---mea-mng--of--Se-etien--4-07(-a-)(-l-)--e f-ER-GLA;--4-2-
------------------Re-s|>eBdeBt-s--[;M^art--M-am-e-s-]--were--the-----%wne-r(-s)------and/:eF `R>peratfc>r(s)"-offhe--fa.iiity---at-the-fi-me--ef4iapesaf-ef-haza:Fdoas--sufistan6es--a.t-the facility, as defined by Section 101(20) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9601(20), and wrthlfl-the"m-ea-mng-of-SeetieH-l-07(a)(2)-ef-E-RLAr 4-2-UvS-:-.--9607(a)(-2)-:
Respondents [insert names] arranged for disposal or treatment, or
sul>stafiees-atAheia<414tr withifi4he"mean-mg"0f-Se6ti:0ii-4O7(-a)(3-)"0f"GERGLA7 42-UvS:G:-f-9Q7{a)(3>
Respondents--[insert--names-}-a t-eF-aeeaptedv-haz-aFcloH-s
CERGLA---4-2-UvSvG:--96Q7(a)(4) :-]J
an--ac^nal---er4hr6at&ned-%6teas&"--e f-a--haz-a-rdeus--sul>staai-&-frem---th6--fa-ei-14t-y---a-s4G4(2-2)--ef-GERGLAr 42-U-:-S-.-G-.---9O-l:-(-2-2-)-.-r
r-h-y-Se-e-ti-en
6.1.6. The actl-v4ti-e-s--Fe0u-H-ed-Work agreed upon in hy-this Settlement are-is necessary to protect the public health, welfare, or the environment and, if carried out in compliance with the terms of this Settlement, will be consistent with the NCP, as provided in Section 300.700(c)(3)(ii) of the NCP.
VII. SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND ORDER
7.1.
Based upon the Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Determinations set
forth above, and the administrative record for the Site, it is hereby Ordered and. Aagreed that
EPA and Respondents shah-will comply with a-l-l-pFev-i-s-i-ens-efi-this Settlement, including, but not
limited to, the SOW, the Work Plan, and all appendices to this Settlement hereby incorporated by
reference herein.
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VIII. PERFORMANCE OF THE WORK
8.1. Coordination and Supervision
8.1.1 Project Coordinators.
a. Respondents' Project Coordinator must have sufficient technical expertise to coordinate the Work. Re-spenden-t-s'---P-mj-ect---Geerd-i-na-t-er--m-a-y--net---be---a-n---a-t-terney---re-pr-e-s-en-t-i-Bg a.ir-Respoirdeirt-4n--thi-s--matt:&F-and-ffla.y--net-af-as--t:he--Su-|?eiv!i-slng-fc)Ht:raeterT: Respondents' Project Coordinator may assign other representatives, including other contractors, to assist in coordinating the Work.
b. EPA has designated Sean Sheldrake of the Office of Environmental Cleanup (ECL), Region 10, as its Project Coordinator. Except as otherwise provided in this Settlement Agreement, Respondents shall direct all submissions required by this Settlement Agreement to the EPA Project Coordinator, Sean Sheldrake, at 1200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, M/S ECL-115, Seattle, WA 98101 via electronic files to sheldrake.sean@epa.gov. Upon request by EPA, Respondents will also provide submissions on a compact disc. All requested electronic submissions must be formatted as directed by the EPA's Project Coordinator in order to be official file copies. Unless otherwise requested, EPA will not require hardcopy submissions of documents.
c. Respondents' Proj ect Coordinator shall provide monthly progress reports to EPA and meet with EPA's Project Coordinator at least monthly to update EPA on the progress of the Work and resolve any technical questions not impacting the scope or structure of the Work in this Settlement.
8.1.2. Supervising Contractor. Respondents' Supervising Contractor must have sufficient technical expertise to supervise the Work and a quality assurance system that complies with ASQ/ANSI E4:2014, "Quality management systems for environmental information and technology programs - Requirements with guidance for use" (American Society for Quality, February 2014).
8.1.3. Procedures for Disapproval/Notice to Proceed.
a. Respondents shall designate, and notify EPA, within 10 days after the Effective Date, of the name[s], title[s], contact information, and qualifications of Respondents' proposed Project Coordinator and Supervising Contractor, whose qualifications shall be subject to EPA's review for verification based on objective assessment criteria (e .g ., experience, capacity, technical expertise), and.-do--net-h-ae-a-6enflict-ef-i-nt-efest-wrtb-fespe6t-te-the--pr-eje6t;.;v
b. EPA shall issue notices of disapproval and/or authorizations to proceed regarding the proposed Project Coordinator and Supervising Contractor, as applicable. If EPA issues a notice of disapproval, Respondents shall, within 10 days, submit to EPA a list of supplemental proposed Project Coordinators and/or Supervising Contractors, as applicable, including a description of the qualifications of each. EPA shall issue a notice of disapproval or
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authorization to proceed regarding each supplemental proposed coordinator and/or contractor. Respondents may select any coordinator/contractor covered by an authorization to proceed and shall, within 21 days, notify EPA of Respondents' selection.
c.
Respondents may change their Project Coordinator and/or Supervising
Contractor, as applicable, by following the procedures of jflj 8.1.3(a) and 8.1.3(b).
8.2. Performance of Work in Accordance with SQWthe Work Plan. EPA and Respondents shali-agree tothat Respondents shall perform the PDI Work specified in the Work Plan-d-&v-elop-the-Werk-P4an-i-n-a6eerda-nee-wl-th-th-&-SQ-W-and-ail-EPA-appreed-.-6end-rtiona-14v~ ^pfevedr ^Hmedifid-4d4vet^tes^SHFeqtttfed-hy-#>e-SOW. All deliverables required to be submitted for approval under the Settlement-er-SQWWork PIan shall be subject to approval by EPA in accordance with 5 (Approval of Deliverables) of the SOW.
8.3. Emergencies and Releases. Respondents shall comply with the emergency and release response and reporting requirements under 3.5 (Emergency Response and Reporting) of the SOW. Subject to Section XVII (Covenants by EPA), nothing in this Settlement, including Tf 3.5 of the SOW, limits any authority of EPA: (a) to take all appropriate action to protect human health and the environment or to prevent, abate, respond to, or minimize an actual or threatened release of Waste Material on, at, or from the Site associated with PDI Work, or (b) to direct or order such action to protect human health and the environment or to prevent, abate, respond to, or minimize an actual or threatened release of Waste Material on, at, or from the SiteJMf, due to Respondents' failure to take appropriate response action under 3.5 of the SOW,, EPA takes sueh-a6tion-i-nstead;--Respendents--shali-rei-mbufse -EPA-under-Seeti<?n-XIII-(Payment-of-Respon-se Cest^-fer-all-eosts-of-the-r^s-pense-a-etien-.-
8.4. Community Involvement. If requested by= EPA_andv Respondents shall conduct community involvement activities undef-E-P-A-'s-ov-erai-ght-as provided for in, and in accordance with, Section 2 (Community Involvement) of the SOW. -est-s-i-B-nrr-ed--by--EP-A---nBder-th-i-s See4ioB---eoB-stifate--EPA-Eufare-RespoB-se--Costs--t:eAe--rel-mburseri-uB-der--SeetioB--XfflTPaym-eB4s for Response Costs).
8.5. Modification of SOW or Related Deliverables.
8.5.1. A basic tenet of Respondents' willingness to undertake the Work under this Settlement was EPA's willingness to agree in advance on the scope of all of the Work to be performed under this Settlement and the incorporation of the Work Plan into the binding terms of this Settlement. The Work to be performed under this Settlement is therefore limited to the specific tasks described in the Work Plan. Under no circumstances shall EPA have the authority under the terms of this Settlement to require Respondents to perform any work not expressly identified in the Work Plan,-If EP-A--de-te-e-Hi-He-s--t-haf i-t--4-s--B-ece-ssaB^--te-m-edi-E/--t-he---werk--s-pe4-fied iB-4heEOW-aHd/er4H-4ei4erabI&s-deeleped-uHdB4he-SQW4n-er4&F4-e-earry--eut-sit:e"wi4e investigation baseline sampling^ then EPA may notify Respondents of such modification. If Re spen4ents--ebja6t-t e --th a-medifi-6-ati-en4-hey -ma-y;---wi-thifl---3-0--days--after -E P A 's--n-etifi-6-ati-en;''S'eek d-i-spute--Fes0hrtien-undef--Seeti0n--XI-V-(-Dispirte--Res0l-uti0n-):-
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8.5.2. The SOW and the Work Plan and/or related work plans shall bewiHeart Q.lly..be modified by the mutual written consent of all Parties to this Settlement, each at its sole discretion. ;vH4THa--ag'<^dafi-&--with4he-medifi6at4en4ssu-ed--b-v---EPA-r-ef--(24---.-Iif--Resgendents
theThe modification shall be incorporated into and enforceable under this Settlements and Respondents shal44ffl-plefflHt:--a:lfweFk--requirebv--snehagree to m>di-fieat:lfc)H-r-Respen4ents--s-halT incorporate any agreed totbe- modification into the deliverable required under the SOW, as appropriate.
8.5.3.
Nothing in this Paragraph shall be construed to limit EPA's authority
under any source other than this Settlement to require performance of lurtherresponse actions,
whether through settlements, administrative orders or othervvisea-s--othmvls-e---u-rekle-d4-n---t-hi-s
Settlement.
8,6. Peer Review. A panel of experts will be selected by EPA and Respondents ("Peer Review Panel") to evaluate certain issues as defined in this paragraph and to help facilitate dispute resolution as provided in Section XIV,
8.6.1, Selection of Peer Review Panel. Within twenty-one (21) days of the Effective Date of this Settlement EPA and Respondents shall select a neutral person (the "Peer Review Panel Selector") to select three experts to serve on the Peer Review Panel. If EPA and Respondents cannot agree on an Expert Panel Selector, the Administrator's Designee as defined in If 14.3.1 will chose the Expert Selector...The Expert Selector shall select persons who have expertise relevant to the nature and scope of the Work to be performed under this Settlement and shall endeavor to ensure that all relevant areas of expertise are represented. Panel members shall be impartial. Prior to the Expert Selector's selection of Expert Panel members, both EPA and Respondents will have an opportunity to identify to the Expert Selector the appropriate areas of expertise of Expert Panel members and to recommend to the Expert Selector potential members for the panel.
8.6,2, Review of PDI Report by Peer Review Panel. Upon Respondents' completion of the PDI Report described in Section 3.3 of the SOW. Respondents shall concurrently submit the PDI Report to EPA and the Peer Review Panel. Prior to EPA taking any action on the PDI Report, the Peer Review Panel will evaluate the PDI Report and, at a minimum, assess the following issues: (1) the sufficiency of the PDI Report in summarizing and documenting the investigation performed; (2) the identification and underlying analysis regarding the active remedial footprints; (3) the evaluation of surface weighted average concentrations (SWACs); (4) the evaluation of upstream background conditions; (5) the analysis of natural recovery trends; and (6) the evaluation of fish tracking results and fish home ranges. Within sixty (60) days of submission of the PDI Report, the Peer Review Panel shall issue a preliminary' written report to EPA and Respondents (`"Preliminary Peer Review Report") summarizing its preliminary-' findings on each issue identified above, making specific recommendations as to whether EPA should accept the findings and conclusions of the PDI Report or whether changes should be suggested or additional or different analyses should be requested, and identifying any additional information the Peer Review Panel may need in finalizing its conclusions.
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8.6.3. Review of Preliminary Peer Review R eport EPA and Respondents shall have twentv-one (21) days to comment on the Preliminary Peer Review Report and the option to request a telephonic conference with the Panel. If a conference is requested by any Party, all Parties shall have the option of making a presentation to the Panel regarding their comments on and evaluation of the Preliminary Peer Review Report. If a conference is requested, the conference shall be scheduled within twenty-one (21) days of the request being made. Following the conference, the Peer Review Panel shall issue a final Peer Review Report within thirty (30) days of the conference. If no conference is requested, the Preliminary' Peer Review Report shall become the Final Peer Review Report.
8.6.4, Review of Final Peer Review Report, EPA and Respondents agree to accept the Final Peer Review Report unless within sixty (60) days of its issuance a Party requests review of the Report in a written request to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency or the Administrator's Designee as defined in H 14.3,1, The Party requesting review of the Final Peer Review Report shall specify in writing in its request for review ail technical issues of which it seeks review. Any Party opposing the request shall have twenty-one (21) days to respond in writing with relevant information supporting its position. An in-person or telephonic conference may be scheduled in the sole determination of the Administrator or his or her designee. The Administrator or his or her designee shall make a determination on the request in writing within thirty (30) days after the opposing submissionCs) are submitted in writing, or the conference^ whichever is later. The determination of the Administrator or his or her designee shall be binding on the Parties.
IX. PROPERTY REQUIREMENTS
9.1. Agreements Regarding Access and Non-Interference. Respondents shall, with respect to any Non-Settling Owner's Affected Property, use best efforts to secure from such Non-Settling Owner an agreement, enforceable by Respondents and the EPA, providing that such Non-Settling Owner, and Owner Respondent shall, with respect to any Owner Settling Respondent's Affected Property: (i) provide EPA, Respondents, and their representatives, contractors, and subcontractors with access at all reasonable times to such Affected Property to conduct any activity regarding the Settlement, including those activities listed in *[}9.2 (Access Requirements); and (ii) refrain from using such Affected Property in any manner that interferes with or adversely affects the implementation or integrity of the Work.
9.2. Access Requirements. The following is a list of activities for which access is required regarding the Affected Property:
9.2.1. Monitoring the Work;
9.2.2. Verifying any data or information submitted to the EPA;
9.2.3. Conducting investigations regarding contamination at or near the Site;
9.2.4. Obtaining samples;
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9.2.5. Assessing the need for, planning, implementing, or monitoring response actions;
9.2.6. Assessing implementation of quality assurance and quality control practices as defined in the approved quality assurance quality control plan as provided in the SOW;
9.2.7. Implementing the Work pursuant to the conditions set forth in % 18.3 (Work Takeover);
9.2.8. Inspecting and copying records, operating logs, contracts, or other documents maintained or generated by Respondents or their agents, consistent with Section X (Access to Information);
9.2.9. Assessing Respondents' compliance with the Settlement; and,
9.2.10. Determining whether the Affected Property is being used in a manner that is prohibited or restricted, or that may need to be prohibited or restricted under the Settlement^md
9.2.11. lffip-lementmgr-ffi0n-i-t0F-mg---ff-a-inta4mng--Fep0rting--0n-an--8nf0Feing-any l-a-nr watef;-0r-8th-er-r&s-0iire0-u-s-&-resfri6ti-ees-regari-H-g-the--Afl;eete P-repe-rty-.-
9.4. Best Efforts. As used in this Section, "best efforts" means the efforts that a reasonable person in the position of Respondents would use so as to achieve the goal in a timely manner, including the cost of employing professional assistance and the payment of reasonable sums of money to secure access and/or use restriction agreements, as required by this Section. If Respondents are unable to accomplish what is required through "best efforts" in a timely manner, they shall notify EPA, and include a description of the steps taken to comply with the requirements. If EPA deems it appropriate, it may assist Respondents, or take independent action, in obtaining such access. All costs incurred by the EPA in providing such assistance or taking such action, including the cost of attorney time and the amount of monetary consideration or just compensation paid, constitute EPA Oversi ght Future Response Costs to be reimbursed under Section XIII (Payment of Response Costs).
9.5. If EPA determines in a decision document prepared in accordance with the NCP that institutional controls in the form of state or local laws, regulations, ordinances, zoning restrictions, or other governmental controls or notices are needed to implement the Work. Respondents shall cooperate with EPA's efforts to secure and ensure compliance with such institutional controls.
9.6. In the event of any Transfer of the Affected Property, unless EPA otherwise consents in writing, Respondents shall continue to comply with their obligations under the Settlement, including their obligation^] to secure access from the new owner of the Affected Property.
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9.7. Notice to Successors-in-Title. Owner Respondent shall, prior to entering into a contract to Transfer its Affected Property, or 60 days prior to Transferring its Affected Property, whichever is earlier: (a) Notify the proposed transferee that EPA has determined that site-wide investigative baseline sampling must be performed at the Site, that potentially responsible parties have entered into an Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order on Consent requiring implementation of such baseline sampling, (identifying the name, docket number, and the effective date of this Settlement); and (b) Notify EPA of the name and address of the proposed transferee and provide EPA with a copy of the above notice that it provided to the proposed transferee.
9.8. Notwithstanding any provision of the Settlement, EPA retains all of its access authorities and rights, as well as all of its rights to require land, water, or other resource use restrictions, including enforcement authorities related thereto under CERCLA, RCRA, and any other applicable statute or regulations.
X. ACCESS TO INFORMATION
10.1. Respondents shall provide to EPA, upon request, copies of all records, reports, documents and other information (including records, reports, documents and other information in electronic form) (hereinafter referred to as "Records") within their possession or control or that of their contractors or agents relating to aetmti-es-Work under this Settlernentat-ffae-Sife-er-te-tfae implementation of this Settlement, including, but not limited to validated data, sampling results, analysis-chain of custody records, manifests, trucking logs, receipts, reports, sample traffic routing, correspondence, or other documents or information related to the Work. Respondents shall also make reasonably available to EPA, for purposes of investigation, information gathering, or testimony, their employees, agents, or representatives with knowledge of relevant facts concerning the performance of the Work.
10.2. Privileged and Protected Claims.
10.2.1. Respondents may assert all or part of a Record requested by EPA is privileged or protected as provided under federal law, in lieu of providing the Record, provided Respondents comply with ]} 10.2.2, and except as provided in ]} 10.2.3.
10.2.2. If Respondents assert such a privilege or protection, they shall provide EPA with the following information regarding such Record: its title; its date; the name, title, affiliation (e.g., company or firm), and address of the author, of each addressee, and of each recipient; a description of the Record's contents; and the privilege or protection asserted. If a claim of privilege or protection applies only to a portion of a Record, Respondents shall provide the Record to EPA in redacted form to mask the privileged or protected portion only. Respondents shall retain all Records that they claim to be privileged or protected until EPA has had a reasonable opportunity to dispute the privilege or protection claim and any such dispute has been resolved in Respondents' favor.
10.2.3. Respondents may make no claim of privilege or protection regarding: (1) any data regarding the Siteeollected in performing the Work under this Settlement, including,
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but not limited to, all such sampling, analytical, monitoring, hydrogeologic, scientific, chemical, radiological, or engineering datar ei4h-peftift-f-any-thef4^eeefd-that-ekle6es-eefl4itis-at r around the Site; or (2) the portion of any Record that Respondents are required to create or generate pursuant to this Settlement.
10.3. Business Confidential Claims. Respondents may assert that all or part of a Record provided to EPA under this Section or Section XI (Record Retention) is business confidential to the extent permitted by and in accordance with ]j 10.2.3, Section 104(e)(7) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9604(e)(7), and 40 C.F.R. 2.203(b). Respondents shall segregate and clearly identify all Records or parts thereof submitted under this Settlement for which Respondents assert business confidentiality claims. Records claimed as confidential business information will be afforded the protection specified in 40 C.F.R. Part 2, Subpart B. If no claim of confidentiality accompanies Records when they are submitted to EPA, or if EPA has notified Respondents that the Records are not confidential under the standards of Section 104(e)(7) of CERCLA or 40 C.F.R. Part 2, Subpart B, the public may be given access to such Records without further notice to Respondents.
10.4. Notwithstanding any provision of this Settlement, EPA retains all of its information gathering and inspection authorities and rights, including enforcement actions related thereto, under CERCLA, RCRA, and any other applicable statutes or regulations.
XI. RECORD RETENTION
11.1. Until 10 years after completion of the Remedial Action, Respomtents-shall preserve and retain all non-identical copies of Records (including Records in electronic form) newufl-theif-possession-er-eon-trel-or-tha-t-eem'eufl-te-t-h-e-i-r-pess'es-si-en-or-oentr-el-t-h-at-r'el-atedfl-afl-y m-affiBer-to-their-Uab-tU-ty--under-GERLA-with-Fespeot-to-tfee--Si-te;-providedvhowever;--that Respon4&n-ts--who--a-re--pet&H-tia-14y---14abio--as--own-ers--OF-op&rators--o f-the--S-i-te--mu-st--r&ta-m;-4-n---ad4itl-eev ail--Re-Gi4-s-th-at--re4ate---te4h84i-ab-i-14-t-y---ef-^ eEach Respondent must afee-retain, and instruct its contractors and agents to preserve_r fer4h-e same period of time specified above, all non-identical copies of the last draft or final version of any Records (including Records in electronic form) now in their possession or control or that come into their possession or control that relate in any manner to the performance of the Work, provided, however, that each Respondent (and its contractors and agents) must retain, in addition, copies of all data generated during the performance of the Work and not contained in the aforementioned Records required to be retained. Each of the above record retention requirements shall apply regardless of any corporate retention policy to the contrary.
11.2. At the conclusion of the document retention period, Respondents shall notify EPA at least 90 days prior to the destruction of any such Records and, upon request by EPA, and except as provided for in ^ 10.2 (Privileged and Protected Claims), Respondents shall deliver any such Records to EPA.
11.3. Each Respondent certifies individually that to the best of its knowledge and belief, after thorough inquiry, it has not altered, mutilated, discarded, destroyed, or otherwise disposed of any Records (other than identical copies) relating to its potential liability regarding
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the Site since notification of potential liability by EPA and that it has fully complied with any and all EPA requests for information regarding the Site pursuant to Sections 104(e) and 122(e) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9604(e) and 9622(e), and Section 3007 of RCRA, 42 U.S.C. 6927, and state law.
XII. COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER LAWS
12.1. Nothing in this Settlement limits Respondents' obligations to comply with the requirements of all applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Respondents must also comply with all applicable or relevant and appropriate requirements of all federal and state environmental laws as set forth in the ROD and the SOW. The activities conducted pursuant to this Settlement, if approved by EPA, shall be considered consistent with the NCP.
12.2. Permits. As provided in Section 121(e) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9621(e), and Section 300.400(c)(3) of the NCP, no permit shall be required for any portion of the Work conducted entirely on-site (i.e. within the areal extent of contamination or in very close proximity to the contamination and necessary for implementation of the Work). Where any portion of the Work that is not on-site requires a federal, state, or local permit or approval, Respondents shall submit timely and complete applications and take all other actions necessary to obtain and to comply with all such permits or approvals.
12.3. Respondents may seek relief under the provisions of Section XV (Force Majeure) for any delay in performance of the Work resulting from a failure to obtain, or a delay in obtaining, any permit or approval referenced in ]} 12.2 (Permits) and required for the Work, provided that they have submitted timely and complete applications and taken all other actions necessary to obtain all such permits or approvals. This Settlement is not, and shall not be construed to be, a permit issued pursuant to any federal or state statute or regulation.
XIII. PAYMENT OF RESPONSE COSTS
13.1. Payment for EPA Past Response Costs
13.1.1. Within 40-60 days after the Effective Date, Respondents shall pay to EPA $___for EPA Past Response Costs not inconsistent with the NCP. Payment shall be made to EPA by Electronic Funds Transfer ("EFT") in accordance with current EFT procedures to be provided to Respondents by EPA, Region 10, and shall be accompanied by a statement identifying the name and address of the party making payment, the Site name, the EPA Region, the account number 10PX, and the EPA docket number for this action.
13.1.2. At the time of payment, Respondents shall send notice that such payment has been made by email to acctsreceivable.cinwd@epa.gov, and to:
EPA Cincinnati Finance Office 26 Martin Luther King Drive Cincinnati, Ohio 45268
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13.1.3.
The total amount to be paid by Respondents pursuant to Paragraph 13.1.1
shall be deposited by EPA in the Portland Harbor Special Account within the EPA Hazardous
Substance Superfund to be retained and used to conduct or finance response actions at or in
connection with the Site,-of-t8--be--fransfee:ed-by-E-PA-t8--th-e--E-PA-Haz-ardHi-s--S-u-bstaeee
Supe-rfa-n-d.
13.2. Payment for EPA Future ResponseOversight Costs
13.2.1. Respondents shall reimburse EPA for all EPA Futu-r-e-Re-suens-eOversight Costs incurred pursuant to this Settlement and not inconsistent with the NCP. On a periodic basis, EPA will send Respondents a bill requiring payment that includes a SCORPIOS Report or similar EPA-prepared cost summary report. Respondents shall make all payments within 30 days of any Respondent's receipt of each bill requiring payment, except as otherwise provided in Paragraph 13.5 (Contesting Oversight Euture-Respense-Costs).
13.2.2. Payments made pursuant to this Paragraph 13.2 shall be made by EFT in accordance with EFT instructions provided by EPA, or by submitting a certified or cashier's check or checks made payment to "EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund," referencing the name and address of the party making the payment, the Site name, the EPA Region, the account number 10PX, and the EPA docket number for this action. Respondents shall send the check to:
U S. Environmental Protection Agency Superfund Payments Cincinnati Finance Center P.O. Box 979076 St. Louis, MO 63197-9000
Respondents shall use the following address for payments made by overnight mail:
U S. Bank 1005 Convention Plaza Mail Station SL-MO-C2GL St. Louis, MO 63101-1229
13.2.3. At the time of payment, Respondents shall send notice that payment has been made to EPA to the Region 10 Project Coordinator and to the Servicing Finance Office, EPA Finance Center, MS-NWD, Cincinnati, OH 45268.
13.3. The total amount paid by Respondents for EPA Futoe-RespeaseOversight Costs will be deposited by EPA in the Portland Harbor Special Account. These funds will be retained and used by EPA to conduct or finance response actions at or in connection with the Siter er te be-tran-sferred-by-EPA-te-the-EPA-Hazardotts-Substarnee-Euperfend.
13.4. Interest. In the event that any payment for EPA Past Response Costs or EPA Future ResnouseQversight Costs is not made by the date required, Respondents shall pay Interest
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on the unpaid balance. The Interest on EPA Past Response Costs shall begin to accrue on the Effective Date. The Interest on EPA Oversight Future-Respense-Costs shall begin to accrue on the date of the bill. The Interest shall accrue through the date of Respondents' payment. Payments of Interest made under this Paragraph shall be in addition to such other remedies or sanctions available to the EPA by virtue of Respondents' failure to make timely payments under this Section, including but not limited to, payment of stipulated penalties pursuant to Section XVI (Stipulated Penalties).
13.5. Contesting EPA Fiiture-RespeeseOversight Costs. Respondents may initiate the procedures of Section XIV (Dispute Resolution) regarding payment of any EPA Oversight Fute'&-Respense-Costs billed under 13.2 (Payments for EPA OversightFufar-e-Respen-se-Costs) if they determine that EPA has made a mathematical error or included a cost item that is not within the definition of EPA Future-ResponseQversi ght Costs, or if they believe EPA incurred excess costs as a direct result of an EPA action that was inconsistent with a specific provision of this Settl ement or provisions of the NCP. To initiate such dispute, Respondents shall submit a Notice of Dispute in writing to the EPA Project Coordinator within 30 days after receipt of the bill. Any such Notice of Dispute shall specifically identify the contested Future ResoenseOversi ght Costs and the basis for objection. If Respondents submit a Notice of Dispute, Respondents shall within the 30-day period, also as a requirement for initiating the dispute, (a) pay all uncontested EPA Oversight Fu-t-ure -Re-snen-se-Costs to EPA in the manner described in 13.2, and (b) establish, in a duly chartered bank or trust company, an interest-bearing escrow account that is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and remit to that escrow account funds equivalent to the amount of the contested EPA FufareRespenseOversight Costs. Respondents shall send to the EPA Project Coordinator a copy of the transmittal letter and check paying the uncontested EPA Oversi ght Fu-fare-Respon-se-Costs, and a copy of the correspondence that establishes and funds the escrow account, including, but not limited to, information containing the identity of the bank and bank account under which the escrow account is established as well as a bank statement showing the initial balance of the escrow account. If EPA prevails in the dispute, within 5 days after the resolution of the dispute, Respondents shall pay the sums due (with accrued interest) to EPA in the manner described in U13.2. If Respondents prevail concerning any aspect of the contested costs, Respondents shall pay that portion of the costs (plus associated accrued interest) for which they did not prevail to EPA in the manner described in ]} 13.2. Respondents shall be disbursed any balance of the escrow account. The dispute resolution procedures set forth in this Paragraph in conjunction with the procedures set forth in Section XIV (Dispute Resolution) shall be the exclusive mechanisms for resolving disputes regarding Respondents' obligation to reimburse EPA for its Oversight FutureResponse-Costs.
13.6. Payment of ODEQ Oversight Response Costs
13.6.1.
Following the issuance of this Settlement, ODEQ will submit a detailed
accounting to Respondents' Project Coordinator on a monthly basis of all Support Agency
oversight costs incurred by ODEQ for the i-m-plem-en-tatien-aed oversight of this Settlement.
Respondents shall pay all direct and indirect Support Agency costs incurred by ODEQ for
implementatlon-aml oversight of this Settlement that are not inconsistent with the NCP.
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13.6.2. Except for any ODEQ oversight costs that they dispute in a manner agreed to by ODEQ and Respondents, Respondents shall, within 30 days of receipt of each ODEQ invoice, remit payment to ODEQ in a manner agreed to by ODEQ and Respondents.
13.6.3. ODEQ invoices will include a summary of costs billed to date and all underlying documentation including but not limited to: ODEQ personnel time sheets; travel authorizations and vouchers; ODEQ contractor monthly invoices; and all applicable laboratory invoices.
13.6.4.
Disputes regarding ODEQ oversight bills shall be resolved in accordance
with a process agreed to between ODEQ and Respondents outside of this Settlement, and neither
ruled by nor conducted under Section XIV of this Settlement.
13 7.-- P-ayiaeat-of--PastTribalRaspeaseG-ests
evem men-t-s--s-h-al-l---sub-m-it---de-t-a-i4e-d--i-H-v-ei-e-s-t e -t-he---Res-pende-nt-s-----P-r-eje-et---Goerd-i-Bater--fer--pasteosts-as-seel-at:ed-with-the-develepffl-ent-effhl-s-RettlemHt:-from-Mar6h-4r-2&47-untifthe-date-ef execution of this Settlement. Respondents shall agree to pay all Tribal past Response Costs
that-ar-e-n-et-m-or-e-th-a-n-...... -%--0f-PA--P-a-st---es-ts-.-a-n--as--aeFee---to--b-y---the---Tr-lba-l---Geemm-en-ts--a-i:i R&speedeefe-eufeibe-efdMsG&tdement:-
l-3-:-7-:-2v-xept-for-any-Trit>al-past-R e sponse - e sts--tiiat-they"dis pute-in-a-m anner
f8ee4pt---9f-the-in--ei-8-sr r8-mit---pay-ffle-gt--t-9--the--T-e -ha-l-^^ Tri-bal-Gevernments-an-Reapondenter
----------- l-3-.-7-.--3-:---Di-spu-t-8-s--r-egardi-H-g---T-ri-b ai---pa-s-t---R e-s-pense---G ost-s---sha14--b e--r8-s9i-ved--m
aeceFdanee-with-a-pFeeess-agreed-to-between-the-TdPal-GoveBimente-arBd-Res-pendents-otttsi-de of this Settlement, and neither ruled by nor conducted under Section XIV of this Settlement.
4T.G:-- P-avmeat--ef-FwtHf-e--Tfibai-Res-pense--0--ersigh-t--ns-te
----------- l-3-.-8-.--l:-:-----Fe11-ew -i-ng--th e -i-ssuanee--o f --t-hia --Settl-8-m enty--t-h8---T-ri-b ai--G evem m -e-H-t-s--w i-14
suhmit-a-detaded-aeceunting-te-the-RespeHdents'-Rroj-eet-GeFrFdi-nater-eH-a-ffl-enthly-basia-ef-al Tribal Response Oversight Costs incurred by the Tribal Governments in relation to this
aFe---not4-ncen-siste-nt--w4th--the--NGP--and--as--ag-Feed--te-by--the---Tfibal-Gover-n-ments--and---Respen-den-ts
.............. l^v8v2:--Ex6ept"for--any-Tribal--R e sponse - e sts--tiiat-they"dis pute-in-a-m aaner ag reed -t0 -4>y-th-8--Tri-bal-G eem m -en-ts-a-nd-R& s|>9edeeter R -es-pendents-sha-14-j-wi4hl-n-3O-days--o f
rc-e-i-f>t--e f-tfa&4g-yei-ees-r-remit--paym-e-r-rt-^ Tribai-GeveFn-ments-and-Respondents-:
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--------- 13.8.3. Disputes regarding Tribal Response Costs shall be resolved in accordance wi-t-h-a-preess-agfeed-te--b'etW'eeH--th'e--:ftib-al-GeeFE-mert5--afld-R'espeE-cleE-ts--ottts-i-cle--ef---tfe-s
S ettle m-ent;-and--nei#ter--fnlod-b-y-nor-6ondute d--uEder-Seotion-XI-V--o f -tbi&--Setd-em entv
XIV. DISPUTE RESOLUTION
14.1. Unless otherwise expressly provided for in this Settlement, the dispute resolution procedures of this Section shall be the exclusive mechanism for resolving disputes arising under this Settlement. The Parties shall attempt to resolve any disagreements concerning this Settlement expeditiously and informally.
14.2. Informal Dispute Resolution. If Respondents object to any EPA decision or action taken pursuant to this Settlement, including billings for EPA Oversight Euture-Respense Costs, they shall send EPA a written Notice of Dispute describing the objection(s) within thirty (30) days after such action, unless the objection(s) has/have been resolved informally. EPA and Respondents shall have thirty (30 ) days from EPA's receipt of Respondents' Notice of Dispute to resolve the dispute through informal negotiations (the "Negotiation Period"). The Negotiation Period may be extended only upon the mutual agreement of all Parties to this Settlement, at-theseie-di-sereti-en-ef-EP-Av-Any agreement reached by the Parties pursuant to this Section shall be in writing and shall, upon signature by the Parties, be incorporated into and become an enforceable part of this Settlement.
14.3. Formal Dispute Resolution. If the Parties are unable to reach an agreement on any matter in dispute within the Negotiation Period, any Party may submit the matter for formal dispute resolution in accordance with this paragraph.
14.3.1, For disputes related to [identify specific non-technical Issues that could be subject to dispute], at any time after the Negotiation Period runs, any Party may submit the matter for a formal, written determination by an EPA official or officials designated by EPA's Administrator to resolve disputes under this Settlement ("Administrator's Designee"). Any Party submitting a matter for resolution under this subparagraph shall provide to the Administrator's Designee with a concurrent copy to all other Parties a written request for resolution that includes, at a minimum, a statement of the matter in dispute, a. summary of efforts to resolve the dispute informally, a succinct summary' of the resolution sought and the basis for that determination, and any other materials that the Party deems necessary for resolution of the issue ("Request for Resolution"). At any time within twenty-one (21) days after receipt of the Request for Resolution, any other Party may provide to the Administrator's Designee with a concurrent copy to all other Parties a written response to the Request for Resolution that includes, at a minimum, a statement of the Party's position on the matter in dispute, a succinct summary of the resolution sought by that Party and the basis for that determination, and any other materials that the Party deems necessary for resolution of the issue ("Response to Request for Resolution")...Any Party, in submitting a Request for Resolution or Response to Request for Resolution, may request the opportunity for a teleconference with the Administrator's Designee and other Parties in advance of the determination. If such a teleconference is requested, it shall be scheduled by the Administrator's Designee for a mutually acceptable date and time within twenty-one (21) days of any Response to Request for Resolution or as soon as practicable thereafter. Within ten (10)
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days after such teleconference, or if no teleconference is requested, within twenty-one (2!) days after the Response to Request for Resolution is submitted, the Administrator's Designee shall issue a written determination on the dispute to all Parties ("Final Determination"), which shall constitute EPA's final decision on the matter. EPA and Respondents shall thereafter comply with the Final Determination.
........................14.3.2. For all other disputes not specifically enumerated in If 14.3.1, any Party that wishes to pursue formal dispute resolution of any matter under this Settlement must submit the matter for a determination by the Peer Review Panel. Any Party submitting any matter for resolution under this subparagraph shall provide to the Peer Review Panel with a concurrent copy to all other Parties a written request for resolution that includes all of the same components of a Request for Resolution described in 1[ 14,3,1 ("Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel")...At any time within twenty-one (21) days after receipt of the Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel, any other Party may provide to the Peer Review Panel with a concurrent copy to all other Parties a written response that includes all of the same components of a Response to Request for Resolution described in If 14.3.1 ("Response to Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel"). Any Party, in submitting a. Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel or a Response to Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel may request the opportunity for a teleconference with the Peer Review Panel and other Parties in advance of the determination. If such a teleconference is requested, it shall be scheduled by the Peer Review Panel for a mutually acceptable date and time within twenty-one (21) days of any Response to Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel or as soon as practicable thereafter. Within ten (TO) days after such teleconference, or if no teleconference is requested, within twenty-one (21) days after the Response to Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel is submitted, the Peer Review Panel shall issue a written determination on the dispute to all Parties ("Determination by Peer Review Panel"), which shall include, at a minimum, a statement of the determination and a summary- of the basis for that determination. EPA and Respondents shall thereafter comply with the Determination by Peer Review Panel unless, within ten (10) days after issuance of the Request for Determination by the Peer Review Panel, any Party submits to the Administrator's Designee with concurrent copy to the other Parties a request for reconsideration of the Peer Review Panel's determination ("Request for Reconsideration"), which shall include, at a minimum, the relevant Request! s) for Determination by the Peer Review Panel. Response!s) to Request(s) for Determination by the Peer Review Panel, Determination by Peer Review Panel, and statement of the specific action requested, and a succinct statement of the grounds for reconsi derati on of the Determination by the Peer Review Panel or portion thereof. At any time within ten (10) days after receipt of the Request for Reconsideration, any other Party may provide to the Administrator's Designee with a concurrent copy to all other Parties a written response ("Response to Request for Reconsideration") that includes, at a minimum, a statement regarding the action requested and a succinct summary of the Parties' position on the matter in dispute. Within ten (10) days after the Response to Request for Resolution is submitted, the Administrator's Designee shall issue a written determination on the dispute to all Parties ("Final Determination"), which shall constitute EPA's final deci sion on the matter. EPA and Respondents shall thereafter comply with the Final Determination.
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If the Parties are unable to reach an agreement within the Negotiation Period, the Director ef-the-EPA-RegieE-fQ-Qf6ee-of"Em4-FeHffieHtai-4ea-E-ttp-ef-hi-s/h-ei:-Asse6i-at-&-Oi-F-eeteF-wMj-4-ssue a-wi-t-te-n--4eF&i0E--0E--the--di-spute--t0--Rasf>eEcleEt-:--E-PA'-s--d6ei-SF0H--s-hall---be-4E-0fp0Fated--ffit0--a-Ecl t>e.eTE-e-aB-eBfeFeeab-l-&-|>aFt"Of-thi-s-Sattl-emeat-:-F0l-1-8wiFFg-j-^s0krtFea-ef-th-&-disp0-te;-a-s-pf0v4d-ed by--tfe-s--Se-Gt4eR-r-Raspen4e-Ht-s---sfaa-14--fal-ftl-I-tfae^ a.6eF4a:Ba-with-4h-agFeeffleBf-Feaebed-fc)F-wit:h-EPA:1&-deeFsk>Rr whiebeveF-oeaFST
14.4.
The invocation of formal dispute resolution procedures under this Section does
not extend, postpone, or affect in any way any obligation of Respondents under this Settlement,
except as provided by j[ 13.5 (Contesting EPA Future-Oversight Response-Costs), as agreed by
EPA.
14.5.
Except as provided in *[f 16.4, stipulated penalties with respect to the disputed
matter shall continue to accrue, but payment shall be stayed pending resolution of the dispute.
Notwithstanding the stay of payment, stipulated penalties shall accrue from the first day of
noncompliance with any applicable provision of this Settlement. In the event that Respondents
do not prevail on the disputed issue, stipulated penalties shall be assessed and paid as provided in
Section XVI (Stipulated Penalties).
XV. FORCE MAJEURE
15.1. "Force Majeure" for purposes of this Settlement is defined as any event arising from causes beyond the control of Respondents, of any entity controlled by Respondents, or of Respondents' contractors that delays or prevents the performance of any obligation under this Settlement despite Respondents' best efforts to fulfill the obligation. The requirement that Respondents exercise "best efforts to fulfill the obligation" includes using best efforts to anticipate any potential force majeure and best efforts to address the effects of any potential force majeure (a) as it is occurring and (b) following the potential force majeure such that the delay and any adverse effects of the delay are minimized to the greatest extent possible. "Force majeure" does not include financial inability to complete the Work or increased cost of performance.
15.2. If any event occurs or has occurred that may delay the performance of any obligation under this Settlement for which Respondents intend or may intend to assert a claim of force majeure, Respondents shall notify the EPA Project Coordinator orally or, in his or her absence, EPA's Alternate Project Coordinator or, in the event both of EPA's designated representatives are unavailable, the Director of the Environmental Cleanup Office, EPA Region 10, within 24 hours of when Respondents first knew that the event might cause a delay. Within 10 days thereafter, Respondents shall provide in writing to EPA an explanation and description of the reasons for the delay; the anticipated duration of the delay; all actions taken or to be taken to prevent or minimize the delay; a schedule for implementation of any measures to be taken to prevent or mitigate the delay or the effect of the delay; Respondents' rationale for attributing such delay to a force majeure; and a statement as to whether, in the opinion of Respondents, such event may cause or contribute to an endangerment to public health or welfare, or the environment. Respondents shall include with any notice all available documentation supporting their claim that the delay was attributable to a force majeure. Respondents shall be deemed to
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know of any circumstance of which Respondents, any entity controlled by Respondents, or Respondents' contractors knew or should have known. Failure to comply with the above requirements regarding an event shall preclude Respondents from asserting any claim of force majeure regarding that event, provided, however, that if EPA, despite the late or incomplete notice, is able to assess to its satisfaction whether the event is a force majeure under % 15.1 and whether Respondents have exercised their best efforts under If 15.1, EPA may, in its unreviewable discretion, excuse in writing Respondents' failure to submit timely or complete notices under this Paragraph.
15.3. If EPA agrees that the delay or anticipated delay is attributable to a force majeure, the time for performance of the obligations under this Settlement that are affected by the force majeure will be extended by EPA for such time as is necessary to complete those obligations. An extension of the time for performance of the obligations affected by the force majeure shall not, of itself, extend the time for performance of any other obligation. If EPA does not agree that the delay or anticipated delay has been or will be caused by a force majeure, EPA will notify Respondents in writing of its decision. If EPA agrees that the delay is attributable to a force majeure, EPA will notify Respondents in writing of the length of the extension, if any, for performance of the obligations affected by the force majeure.
15.4. If Respondents elect to invoke the dispute resolution procedures set forth in Section XIV (Dispute Resolution), they shall do so no later than 15 days after receipt of EPA's notice. In any such proceeding, Respondents shall have the burden of demonstrating by a preponderance of the evidence that the delay or anticipated delay has been or will be caused by a force majeure, that the duration of the delay or the extension sought was or will be warranted under the circumstances, that best efforts were exercised to avoid and mitigate the effects of the delay, and that Respondents complied with the requirements of 15.1 and 15.2. If Respondents carry this burden, the delay at issue shall be deemed not to be a violation by Respondents of the affected obligation of this Settlement identified to EPA.
15.5. The failure by EPA to timely complete any obligation under the Settlement is not a violation of the Settlement, provided, however, that if such failure prevents Respondents from meeting one or more deadlines under the Settlement, Respondents may seek relief under this Section.
XVI. STIPULATED PENALTIES
16.1.
Respondents shah-agree to be liable to EPA for stipulated penalties in the
amounts set forth in *[f 16.2 for any noncompliance with the requirements of this Settlement
unless excused under Section XV (Force Majeure). "Comply" as used in the previous sentence
includes compliance by Respondents with all applicable requirements of this Settlement, within
the deadlines established under this Settlement. If (i) an initially submitted or resubmitted
deliverable contains a material defect and the conditions are met for modifying the deliverable
under Tj 5 of the SOW; or (ii) a resubmitted deliverable contains a material defect; then the
material defect constitutes a lack of compliance for purposes of this Paragraph.
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16.2.
The following stipulated penalties shall accrue per violation per day for any non-
compliance with the requirements of this Settlement Agreement, including late payments of EPA
Oversight Futufe-Res-nense-Costs.
Penalty Per Violation Per Day
Period of Noncompliance
$250
1st through 7th day
$ 500
8th through 14th day
$ 1,500
15th through 30th day
$2,500
31st day and beyond
16.3. In the event that EPA assumes performance of a portion or all of the Work pursuant to ]} 18.3 (Work Takeover), Respondents shall be liable for agree to a. liquidated damages amount a4tfi-eulated---p&R-a-l4--fR--the--a-me-H-at--of $200,000 or 25% of the cost of the Work, EPA performs, whichever is less. Stipulated penalties under this Paragraph are in addition to the remedies available to EPA under *ff 18.3 (Work Takeover) and $[ 24.6 (Access to Financial Assurance).
16.4. All penalties shall begin to accrue on the day after the complete performance is due or the day a violation occurs and shall continue to accrue through the final day of the correction of the noncompliance or completion of the activity. Penalties shall continue to accrue during any dispute resolution period, and shall be paid within 15 days after the agreement or the receipt of EPA's decision. Elowever, stipulated penalties shall not accrue: (a) with respect to a deficient submission under ^ 5.6 (Approval of Deliverables) of the SOW, during the period, if any, beginning on the 31st day after EPA's receipt of such submission until the date that EPA notifies Respondents of any deficiency; and (b) with respect to a decision by the EPA Region 10 Office of Environmental Cleanup, Director or Associate Director, under Section XIV (Dispute Resolution), during the period, if any, beginning on the 21st day after the Negotiation Period begins until the date that the EPA Management Official issues a final decision regarding such dispute. Nothing in this Settlement shall prevent the simultaneous accrual of separate penalties for separate violations of this Settlement.
16.5. Following EPA's determination that Respondents have failed to comply with a requirement of this Settlement, EPA may give Respondents written notification of the failure and describe the noncompliance. EPA may send Respondents a written demand for payment of the penalties. However, penalties shall accrue as provided in the preceding Paragraph regardless of whether EPA has notified Respondents of a violation.
16.6. All penalties accruing under this Section shall be due and payable to EPA within 30 days after Respondents' receipt from EPA of a demand for payment of the penalties, unless Respondents invoke the Dispute Resolution procedures under Section XIV (Dispute Resolution) within the 30-day period. All payments to EPA under this Section shall indicate that the payment
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is for stipulated penalties and shall be made in accordance with If 13.2 (Payments for EPA Oversiuln Fu-tere-Respen-se-Costs).
16.7. If Respondents fail to pay stipulated penalties when due, Respondents shall pay Interest on the unpaid stipulated penalties as follows: (a) if Respondents have timely invoked dispute resolution such that the obligation to pay stipulated penalties has been stayed pending the outcome of dispute resolution, Interest shall accrue from the date stipulated penalties are due pursuant to *[}16.4 until the date of payment; and (b) if Respondents fail to timely invoke dispute resolution, Interest shall accrue from the date of demand under ]} 16.6 until the date of payment. If Respondents fail to pay stipulated penalties and Interest when due, the United States may institute proceedings to collect the penalties and Interest.
16.8. The payment of penalties and Interest, if any, shall not alter in any way Respondents' obligation to complete performance of the Work required under this Settlement.
16.9. Nothing in this Settlement shall be construed as prohibiting, altering, or in any way limiting the ability of EPA to seek any other remedies or sanctions available by virtue of Respondents' violation of this Settlement or of the statutes and regulations upon which it is based, including, but not limited to, penalties pursuant to Section 122(7) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9622(7), and punitive damages pursuant to Section 107(c)(3) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9607(c)(3), provided, however, that EPA shall not seek civil penalties pursuant to Section 122(7) of CERCLA or punitive damages pursuant to Section 107(c)(3) of CERCLA for any violation for which a stipulated penalty is provided in this Settlement, except in the case of a willful violation of this Settlement or in the event that EPA assumes performance of a portion or all of the Work pursuant to 18.3 (Work Takeover).
16.10. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section, EPA may, in its unreviewable discretion, waive any portion of stipulated penalties that have accrued pursuant to this Settlement.
XVII. COVENANTS BY EPA
17.1. Except as provided in Section XVIII (Reservation of Rights by EPA), EPA covenants not to sue or to take administrative action against Respondents pursuant to Sections 106 and 107(a) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9606 and 9607(a), for the Work, EPA Past Response Costs, and EPA Oversight FirtafenRespease-Costs. These covenants shall take effect upon the Effective Date. These covenants are conditioned upon the complete and satisfactory performance by Respondents of their obligations under this Settlement. These covenants extend only to Respondents and do not extend to any other person.
XVIII. RESERVATIONS OF RIGHTS BY EPA
18.1. Except as specifically provided in this Settlement, nothing in this Settlement shall limit the power and authority of EPA or the United States under any authority other than this Settlement to take, direct, or order all actions necessary to protect public health, welfare, or the environment or to prevent, abate, or minimize an actual or threatened release of hazardous
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substances, pollutants, or contaminants, or hazardous or solid waste on, at, or from the Site. Further, nothing in this Settlement shall prevent EPA from seeking legal or equitable relief to enforce the terms of this Settlement, from taking other legal or equitable action as it deems appropriate and necessary, or from requiring Respondents in the future to perform additional activities pursuant to CERCLA or any other applicable law under a separate order or consent decree.
18.2. The covenants set forth in Section XVII (Covenants by EPA) above do not pertain to any matters other than those expressly identified therein. EPA reserves, and this Settlement is without prejudice to, all rights against Respondents with respect to all other matters, including, but not limited to:
18.2.1. liability for failure by Respondents to meet a requirement of this Settlement;
18.2.2. liability for costs not included within the defmition[s] of EPA Past Response Costs or EPA Oversi ght Future-Respense-Costs;
18.2.3. liability for performance of response action other than the Work;
18.2.4. criminal liability;
18.2.5. liability for violations of federal or state law that occur during or after implementation of the Work;
18.2.6. liability for damages for injury to, destruction of, or loss of natural resources, and for the costs of any natural resource damage assessments;
18.2.7. liability arising from the past, present, or future disposal, release or threat of release of Waste Materials outside of the Site; and
18.2.8. liability for costs incurred or to be incurred by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry related to the Site not paid as EPA Oversight Future Response Costs under this Settlement.
18.3. Work Takeover
18.3.1.
In the event EPA determines that Respondents: (1) have ceased
implementation of any portion of the Work; (2) are seriously or repeatedly deficient or late in
their performance of the Work; or (3) are implementing the Work in a manner that may cause an
endangerment to human health or the environment, EPA may issue a written notice ("Work
Takeover Notice") to Respondents. Any Work Takeover Notices issued by EPA (which writing
may be electronic) will specify the grounds upon which such notice was issued and will provide
Respondents a period of 210 days within which to remedy the circumstances giving rise to
EPA's issuance of such notice.
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18.3.2. If, after expiration of the 210-day notice period specified in If 18.3.1. Respondents have not remedied to EPA's satisfaction the circumstances giving rise to EPA's issuance of the relevant Work Takeover Notice, EPA may at any time thereafter assume the performance of all or any portion(s) of the Work as EPA deems necessary ("Work Takeover"). EPA will notify Respondents in writing (which writing may be electronic) if EPA determines that implementation of a Work Takeover is warranted under this Tf 18.3.2. Funding of Work Takeover costs is addressed under 24.6 (Access to Financial Assurance).
18.3.3. Respondents may invoke the procedures set forth in 14.3 (Formal Dispute Resolution) to dispute EPA's implementation of a Work Takeover under 18.3.2. Flowever, notwithstanding Respondents' invocation of such dispute resolution procedures, and during the pendency of any such dispute, EPA may in its sole discretion commence and continue a Work Takeover under *[}18.3.2 until the earlier of (1) the date that Respondents remedy, to EPA's satisfaction, the circumstances giving rise to EPA's issuance of the relevant Work Takeover Notice, or (2) the date that a written decision terminating such Work Takeover is rendered in accordance with ]} 14.3 (Formal Dispute Resolution).
18.4. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Settlement, EPA retains all authority and reserves all rights to take any and all response actions authorized by law.
XIX. COVENANTS BY RESPONDENTS
19.1. Except with respect to the United States in its capacity as federal PRPs, Respondents covenant not to sue and agree not to assert any claims or causes of action against the United States, or its contractors or employees, with respect to the Work, EPA Past Response Costs, EPA Future-RespenseOversight Costs, and this Settlement, including, but not limited to:
19.1.1. any direct or indirect claim for reimbursement from the EPA Hazardous Substance Superfimd through Sections 106(b)(2), 107, 111, 112, or 113 of CERCLA, 42U.S.C. 9606(b)(2), 9607, 9611, 9612, or 9613, or any other provision of law;
19.1.2. any claim under Sections 107 and 113 of CERCLA, Section 7002(a) of RCRA, 42 U.S.C. 6972(a), or state law relating to the Work, EPA Past Response Costs, EPA Oversight Fut-ur-e-Re-spon-s-e-Costs. and this Settlement;
19.1.3. any claim arising out of response actions at or in connection with the Site, including any claim under the United States Constitution, the Oregon Constitution, the Tucker Act, 28 U.S.C. 1491, the Equal Access to Justice Act, 28 U.S.C. 2412, or at common law; or
19.2. These covenants not to sue shall not apply in the event the EPA brings a cause of action or issues an order pursuant to any of the reservations set forth in Section XVIII (Reservations of Rights by EPA), other than in 18.2.1 (liability for failure to meet a requirement of the Settlement), 18.2.2 (criminal liability), or 18.2.3 (violations of federal/state
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law during or after implementation of the Work), but only to the extent that Respondents' claims arise from the same response action, response costs, or damages that the EPA is seeking pursuant to the applicable reservation.
19.3. Nothing in this Settlement shall be deemed to constitute approval or preauthorization of a claim within the meaning of Section 111 of CERCLA, 42 U.S. C. 9611, or 40C.F.R. 300.700(d).
19.4. Respondents reserve, and this Settlement is without prejudice to, claims against the EPA, subject to the provisions of Chapter 171 of Title 28 of the United States Code, and brought pursuant to any statute other than CERCLA or RCRA and for which the waiver of sovereign immunity is found in a statute other than CERCLA or RCRA, for money damages for injury or loss of property or personal injury or death caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of any employee of the EPA, as that term is defined in 28 U.S.C. 2671, while acting within the scope of his or her office or employment under circumstances where the United States, if a private person, would be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the place where the act or omission occurred. However, the foregoing shall not include any claim based on EPA's selection of response actions, or the oversight or approval of Respondents' deliverables or activities.
XX. OTHER CLAIMS
20.1. By issuance of this Settlement, the EPA assumes no liability for injuries or damages to persons or property resulting from any acts or omissions of Respondents. The EPA shall not be deemed a party to any contract entered into by Respondents or their directors, officers, employees, agents, successors, representatives, assigns, contractors, or consultants in carrying out actions pursuant to this Settlement.
20.2. Except as expressly provided in Section XVII (Covenants by EPA), nothing in this Settlement constitutes a satisfaction of or release from any claim or cause of action against Respondents or any person not a party to this Settlement for any liability such person may have under CERCLA, other statutes, or common law, including but not limited to any claims of the EPA for costs, damages, and interest under Sections 106 and 107 of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9606 and 9607.
20.3. No action or decision by EPA pursuant to this Settlement shall give rise to any right to judicial review, except as set forth in Section 113(h) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9613(h).
XXI. EFFECT OF SETTLEMENT/CONTRIBUTION
21.1.
Nothing in this Settlement shall be construed to create any rights in, or grant any
cause of action to, any person not a Party to this Settlement. Except as provided in Section XIX
(Covenants by Respondents), each of the Parties expressly reserves any and all rights (including,
but not limited to, pursuant to Section 113 of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9613), defenses, claims,
demands, and causes of action that each Party may have with respect to any matter, transaction,
or occurrence relating in any way to the Site against any person not a Party hereto, including the
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federal PRPs. Nothing in this Settlement diminishes the right of the EPA, pursuant to Section 113(f)(2) and (3) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9613(f)(2)-(3), to pursue any such persons to obtain additional response costs or response action and to enter into settlements that give rise to contribution protection pursuant to Section 113(f)(2).
21.2.
The Parties agree that this Settlement constitutes an administrative settlement
pursuant to which each Respondent has, as of the Effective Date, resolved liability to the EPA
within the meaning of Sections 113(f)(2) and 122(h)(4) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9613(f)(2)
and 9622(h)(4), and is entitled, as of the Effective Date, to protection from contribution actions
or claims as provided by Sections 113(f)(2) and 122(h)(4) of CERCLA, or as may be otherwise
provided by law, for the "matters addressed" in this Settlement. The "matters addressed" in this
Settlement are solely the Work, EPA-P-a-sf-Respen-se-Cos-tS; and EPA Oversight E-u-tufe-Respen-se
Costs.
21.3. The Parties further agree that this Settlement constitutes an administrative settlement pursuant to which each Respondent has, as of the Effective Date, resolved liability to the EPA within the meaning of Section 113(f)(3)(B) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9613(f)(3)(B).
21.4. Each Respondent shall, with respect to any suit or claim brought by it for the matters addressed related-tein this Settlement, notify EPA in writing no later than 60 days prior to the initiation of such suit or claim. Each Respondent also shall, with respect to any suit or claim brought against it for the matters addressed related torn this Settlement, notify EPA in writing within 10 days after service of the complaint or claim upon it. In addition, each Respondent shall notify EPA within 10 days after service or receipt of any Motion for Summary Judgment and within 10 days after receipt of any order from a court setting a case for trial, for matters addressed in related to this Settlement.
21.5. In any subsequent administrative or judicial proceeding initiated by EPA, or by the United States on behalf of EPA, for injunctive relief, recovery of response costs, or other relief relating to the Site, Respondents shall not assert, and may not maintain, any defense or claim based upon the principles of waiver, res judicata, collateral estoppel, issue preclusion, claim-splitting, or other defenses based upon any contention that the claims raised in the subsequent proceeding were or should have been brought in the instant case; provided, however, that nothing in this Paragraph affects the enforceability of the covenant by EPA set forth in Section XVII (Covenants by EPA).
21.6. Effective upon signature of this Settlement by a Respondent, such Respondent agrees that the time period commencing on the date of its signature and ending on the date EPA receives from such Respondent the payment(s) required by Tf 13.1 (Payment for EPA Past Response Costs) and, if any, Section XVI (Stipulated Penalties) shall not be included in computing the running of any statute of limitations potentially applicable to any action brought by the United States related to the "matters addressed" as defined in 21.2 and that, in any action brought by the United States related to the "matters addressed," such Respondent will not assert, and may not maintain, any defense or claim based upon principles of statute of limitations, waiver, laches, estoppel, or other defense based on the passage of time during such period. If EPA gives notice to Respondents that it will not make this Settlement effective, the statute of
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limitations shall begin to run again commencing ninety days after the date such notice is sent by EPA.
XXII. INDEMNIFICATION
22.1.
The EPA does not assume any liability by entering into this Settlement or by
virtue of any designation of Respondents the United States as EPA's authorized representatives
under Section 104(e) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9604(e), and 40 C.F.R. 300.400(d)(3).
Respondents shall indemnify, save, and hold harmless the EPA, its officials, agents, employees,
contractors, subcontractors, employees, and representatives for or from any and all claims or
causes of action arising from, or on account of, negligent or other wrongful acts or omissions of
Respondents, their officers, directors, employees, agents, contractors, or subcontractors, and any
persons acting on Respondents' behalf or under their control, in carrying out activities pursuant
to this Settlement. Further, Respondents agree to pay the EPA all costs it incurs, including, but
not limited to attorneys' fees and other expenses of litigation and settlement arising from, or on
account of, claims made against the United States based on negligent or other wrongful acts or
omissions of Respondents, their officers, directors, employees, agents, contractors,
subcontractors, and any persons acting on their behalf or under their control, in carrying out
activities pursuant to this Settlement. The EPA shall not be held out as a party to any contract
entered into, by, or on behalf of Respondents in carrying out activities pursuant to this
Settlement. Neither Respondents nor any such contractor shall be considered an agent of the
EPA.
22.2. The EPA shall give Respondents notice of any claim for which the EPA plans to seek indemnification pursuant to this Section and shall consult with Respondents prior to settling such claim.
22.3. Respondents covenant not to sue and agree not to assert any claims or causes of action against the EPA for damages or reimbursement or for set-off of any payments made, or to be made, to the EPA, arising from or on account of any contract, agreement, or arrangement between any one or more of Respondents and any person for performance of Work on or relating to the Site, including, but not limited to, claims on account of construction delays. In addition, Respondents shall indemnify and hold harmless the EPA with respect to any and all claims for damages or reimbursement arising from or on account of, any contract, agreement, or arrangement between any one or more of Respondents and any person for performance of Work on or relating to the Site, including, but not limited to, claims on account of construction delays.
XXIII. INSURANCE
23.1.
No later than 15 days before commencing any on-site Work, Respondents shall
secure, and shall maintain until so notified by EPA, commercial general liability insurance with
limits of liability of $1 million per occurrence, and automobile insurance with limits of liability
of $1 million per accident, and umbrella liability insurance with limits of liability of $5 million
in excess of the required commercial general liability and automobile liability limits, naming
EPA as an additional insured with respect to all liability arising out of the activities performed by
or on behalf of Respondents pursuant to this Settlement. In addition, for the duration of the
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Settlement, Respondents shall provide EPA with certificates of such insurance and a copy of each insurance policy. Respondents shall resubmit such certificates and copies of policies each year on the anniversary of the Effective Date. In addition, for the duration of the Settlement, Respondents shall satisfy, or shall ensure that their contractors or subcontractors satisfy, all applicable laws and regulations regarding the provision of worker's compensation insurance for all persons performing the Work on behalf of Respondents in furtherance of this Settlement. If Respondents demonstrate by evidence satisfactory to EPA that any contractor or subcontractor maintains insurance equivalent to that described above, or insurance covering some or all of the same risks but in a lesser amount, Respondents need provide only that portion of the insurance described above that is not maintained by the contractor or subcontractor. Respondents shall ensure that all submittals to EPA under this Paragraph identify the Site name, City, State and the EPA docket number for this action.
XXIV. FINANCIAL ASSURANCE
[This section to be discussed with EPA,]
24.1. In order to ensure the completion of the Work, Respondents shall secure financial assurance, initially in the amount of $ [_____________] ("Estimated Cost of the Work"), for the benefit of EPA. The financial assurance must be one or more of the mechanisms listed below, in a form substantially identical to the relevant sample documents available from EPA or under the "Financial Assurance - Settlements" category on the Cleanup Enforcement Model Language and Sample Documents Database at https://cfpub.epa.gov/compliance/mod.els/, and satisfactory to EPA. Respondents may use multiple mechanisms, including but not if they are limited to surety bonds guaranteeing payment, letters of credit, trust funds, and/or insurance policies.
24.1.1. A surety bond guaranteeing payment and/or performance of the Work that is issued by a surety company among those listed as acceptable sureties on federal bonds as set forth in Circular 570 of the U S. Department of the Treasury;
24.1.2. An irrevocable letter of credit, payable to or at the direction of EPA, that is issued by an entity that has the authority to issue letters of credit and whose letter-of-credit operations are regulated and examined by a federal or state agency;
24.1.3. A trust fund established for the benefit of EPA that is administered by a trustee that has the authority to act as a trustee and whose trust operations are regulated and examined by a federal or state agency;
24.1.4. A policy of insurance that provides EPA with acceptable rights as a beneficiary thereof and that is issued by an insurance carrier that has the authority to issue insurance policies in the applicable jurisdiction(s) and whose insurance operations are regulated and examined by a federal or state agency;
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24.1.5. A demonstration by a Respondent that it meets the financial test criteria of If 24.3, accompanied by a standby funding commitment, which obligates the affected Respondent to pay funds to or at the direction of EPA, up to the amount financially assured through the use of this demonstration in the event of a Work Takeover; or
24.1.6. A guarantee to fund or perform the Work executed in favor of EPA by a company: (1) that is a direct or indirect parent company of a Respondent or has a "substantial business relationship" (as defined in 40 C.F.R. 264.141(h)) with a Respondent; and (2) can demonstrate to EPA's satisfaction that it meets the financial test criteria of %24.3.
24.2. Respondents have selected, and EPA has found satisfactory, a _____________, as an initial form of financial assurance. Within 30 days after the Effective Date, or 30 days after EPA's approval of the form and substance of Respondents' financial assurance, whichever is later, Respondents shall secure all executed and/or otherwise finalized mechanisms or other documents consistent with the EPA-approved form of financial assurance and shall submit such mechanisms and documents to the EPA Project Coordinator at the address specified in 8.1. with a copy to the EPA Region 10, Office of Regional Counsel, 1200 Sixth Avenue, ORC-113, Seattle, WA 98101.
24.3. Respondents seeking to provide financial assurance by means of a demonstration or guarantee under jf 24.1.5 or 24.1.6, must, within 30 days of the Effective Date:
24.3.1. Demonstrate that:
a. The affected Respondent or guarantor has:
i. Two of the following three ratios: a ratio of total liabilities to net worth less than 2.0; a ratio of the sum of net income plus depreciation, depletion, and amortization to total liabilities greater than 0.1; and a ratio of current assets to current liabilities greater than 1.5; and
ii. Net working capital and tangible net worth each at least six times the sum of the Estimated Cost of the Work and the amounts, if any, of other federal, state, or tribal environmental obligations financially assured through the use of a financial test or guarantee; and
iii. Tangible net worth of at least $10 million; and
iv. Assets located in the United States amounting to at least 90 percent of total assets or at least six times the sum of the Estimated Cost of the Work and the amounts, if any, of other federal, state, or tribal environmental obligations
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financially assured through the use of a financial test or guarantee; or
b. The affected Respondent or guarantor has:
i. A current rating for its senior unsecured debt of AAA, AA, A, or BBB as issued by Standard and Poor's or Aaa, Aa, A or Baa as issued by Moody's; and
ii. Tangible net worth at least six times the sum of the Estimated Cost of the Work and the amounts, if any, of other federal, state, or tribal environmental obligations financially assured through the use of a financial test or guarantee; and
iii. Tangible net worth of at least $10 million; and
iv. Assets located in the United States amounting to at least 90 percent of total assets or at least six times the sum of the Estimated Cost of the Work and the amounts, if any, of other federal, state, or tribal environmental obligations financially assured through the use of a financial test or guarantee; and
24.3.2.
Submit to EPA for the affected Respondent or guarantor: (1) a copy of an
independent certified public accountant's report of the entity's financial statements for the latest
completed fiscal year, which must not express an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion; and
(2) a letter from its chief financial officer and a report from an independent certified public
accountant substantially identical to the sample letter and reports available from EPA or under
the "Financial Assurance - Settlements" subject list category on the Cleanup Enforcement Model
Language and Sample Documents Database at https://cfpub.epa.gov/compliance/models/.
24.4.
Respondents providing financial assurance by means of a demonstration or
guarantee under 24.1.5 or 24.1.6 must also:
24.4.1. Annually resubmit the documents described in ]} 24.3.2 within 90 days after the close of the affected Respondent's or guarantor's fiscal year;
24.4.2. Notify EPA within 30 days after the affected Respondent or guarantor determines that it no longer satisfies the relevant financial test criteria and requirements set forth in this Section; and
24.4.3. Provide to EPA, within 30 days of EPA's request, reports of the financial condition of the affected Respondent or guarantor in addition to those specified in ]f 24.3.2; EPA may make such a request at any time based on a
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belief that the affected Respondent or guarantor may no longer meet the financial test requirements of this Section.
24.5. Respondents shall diligently monitor the adequacy of the financial assurance. If any-Respondents becomes aware of any information indicating that the financial assurance provided under this Section is inadequate or otherwise no longer satisfies the requirements of this Section, sueb-Respondents shall notify EPA of such information within 7 days. If EPA determines that the financial assurance provided under this Section is inadequate or otherwise no longer satisfies the requirements of this Section, EPA will notify the affected Respondents of such determination. Respondents shall, within 30 days after notifying EPA or receiving notice from EPA under this Paragraph, secure and submit to EPA for approval a proposal for a revised or alternative financial assurance mechanism that satisfies the requirements of this Section. EPA may extend this deadline for such time as is reasonably necessary for the affeeted-Respondents, in the exercise of due diligence, to secure and submit to EPA a proposal for a revised or alternative financial assurance mechanism, not to exceed 60 days. Respondents shall follow the procedures of ^ 24.7 (Modification of Amount, Form, or Terms of Financial Assurance) in seeking approval of, and submitting documentation for, the revised or alternative financial assurance mechanism. Respondents' inability to secure financial assurance in accordance with this Section does not excuse performance of any other obligation under this Settlement.
24.6. Access to Financial Assurance
24.6.1. If EPA issues a notice of implementation of a Work Takeover under If 18.3, then, in accordance with any applicable financial assurance mechanism and/or related standby funding commitment, EPA is entitled to: (1) the performance of the Work; and/or (2) require that any funds guaranteed be paid in accordance with 24.6.4.
24.6.2. If EPA is notified by the issuer of a financial assurance mechanism that it intends to cancel such mechanism, and the affected Respondents fails to provide an alternative financial assurance mechanism in accordance with this Section at least 30 days prior to the cancellation date, the funds guaranteed under such mechanism must be paid prior to cancellation in accordance with |f 24.6.4.
24.6.3. If, upon issuance of a notice of implementation of a Work Takeover under *[f 18.3, either: (1) EPA is unable for any reason to promptly secure the resources guaranteed under any applicable financial assurance mechanism and/or related standby funding commitment, whether in cash or in kind, to continue and complete the Work; or (2) the financial assurance is a demonstration or guarantee under ^ 24.1.5 or 24.1.6, then EPA is entitled to demand an amount, as determined by EPA, sufficient to cover the cost of the remaining Work to be performed. Respondents shall, within 30 days of such demand, pay the amount demanded as directed by EPA.
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24.6.4. Any amounts required to be paid under this ]}24.6 shall be, as directed by EPA: (i) paid to EPA in order to facilitate the completion of the Work by EPA or by another person; or (ii) deposited into an interest-bearing account, established at a duly chartered bank or trust company that is insured by the FDIC, in order to facilitate the completion of the Work by another person. If payment is made to EPA, EPA may deposit the payment into the EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund or into the Portland Harbor Special Account within the EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund to be retained and used to conduct or finance response actions at or in connection with the Site, or to be transferred by EPA to the EPA Hazardous Substance Superfund.
24.6.5. All EPA Work Takeover costs not paid under this *ff24.6 must be reimbursed as EPA Future Response Costs under Section XIII (Payments for Response Costs).
24.7. Modification of Amount, Form, or Terms of Financial Assurance. Respondents may submit, on any anniversary of the Effective Date or at any other time agreed to by the Parties, a request to reduce the amount, or change the form or terms, of the financial assurance mechanism. Any such request must be submitted to EPA in accordance with jf 24.2 and must include an estimate of the cost of the remaining Work, an explanation of the bases for the cost calculation, and a description of the proposed changes, if any, to the form or terms of the financial assurance. EPA will notify Respondents of its decision to approve or disapprove a requested reduction or change pursuant to this Paragraph. Respondents may reduce the amount of the financial assurance mechanism only in accordance with: (a) EPA's approval; or (b) if there is a dispute, the agreement or written decision resolving such dispute under Section XIV (Dispute Resolution). Respondents may change the form or terms of the financial assurance mechanism only in accordance with EPA's approval. Any decision made by EPA on a request submitted under this Paragraph to change the form or terms of a financial assurance mechanism shall not be subject to challenge by Respondents pursuant to the dispute resolution provisions of this Settlement or in any other forum. Within 30 days after receipt of EPA's approval of, or the agreement or decision resolving a dispute relating to, the requested modifications pursuant to this Paragraph, Respondents shall submit to EPA documentation of the reduced, revised, or alternative financial assurance mechanism in accordance with |f 24.2.
24.8. Release, Cancellation, or Discontinuation of Financial Assurance. Respondents may release, cancel, or discontinue any financial assurance provided under this Section only: (a) in accordance with EPA's approval of such release, cancellation, or discontinuation; or (b) if there is a dispute regarding the release, cancellation, or discontinuance of any financial assurance, in accordance with the agreement or final decision resolving such dispute under Section XIV (Dispute Resolution), or (c) upon completion of the Work and termination of the Order.
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
Tier 1
ED 002061 00116500-00039
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
XXV. INTEGRATION/APPENDICES
25.1. This Settlement and its appendices constitute the final, complete, and exclusive agreement and understanding among the Parties with respect to the settlement embodied in this Settlement. The parties acknowledge that there are no representations, agreements, or understandings relating to the settlement other than those expressly contained in this Settlement. The following appendices are attached to and incorporated into this Settlement:
25.1.1. Appendix A is the Statement of Work, including the Sampling--and A-H-aiy-si-s-Pia-H-PDI Work Plan.
25.1.2. Appendix B is a map of the Site.
25.1.3. Appendix C is a complete list of Respondents.
25.1.4. Appendix D is the financial assurance.
XXVI. MODIFICATION
26.1. The EPA Project Coordinator and Supervising Contractor for Respondents may modify any ptem-schedule under the SOW, or the Work Plan by mutual agreementr-or-SOW in writingor by oral direction^. Any oral modification will be memorialized in writing by EPA p-rem-pti-y-r-but---sha-li--h-ae--as--i-ts--effeetie--at-e--t-h-&-d-a-t&-o f-the--PA--Pfejeet---eerffl-a-ter'-s--eraldirection. Any other requirements of this Settlement may only be modified in writing by mutual agreement of the-all Pparties, each at its sole discretion.
26.2. If Respondents seek permission to deviate from any approved work plan; seh-euler-orthe SOW, the SAP, or the Work Plan, Respondents' Project Coordinator shall submit a written request to EPA for approval outlining the proposed modification and its basis. Respondents may not proceed with the requested deviation until receiving oral or written approval from the EPA Project Coordinator pursuant to 8.1.1.
26.3. No informal advice, guidance, suggestion, or comment by the EPA Project Coordinator or other EPA representatives regarding any deliverable submitted by Respondents shall relieve Respondents of their obligation to obtain any formal approval required by this Settlement, or to comply with all requirements of this Settlement, unless it is formally modified.
XXVII. EFFECTIVE DATE
27.1.
This Settlement shall be effective upon signature by the Environmental Cleanup
Office, EPA Region 10.
XXVIII. TERMINATION
______27.2. This Order shall terminate when Respondents demonstrate in writing that the Work has been completed.
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
Tier 1
ED 002061 00116500-00040
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
IT IS SO AGREED AND ORDERED; U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Dated
Davis Zhen Unit Manager, Environmental Cleanup Office EPA Region 10
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
Tier 1
ED 002061 00116500-00041
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL ATTORNEY WORK PRODUCT Subject to FRE 408 and Related Privileges For Settlement Purposes Only
Signature Page for Settlement regarding the_______________Superfund Site
FOR_____________________________ [Print name of Respondent]
Dated
[Name] [Title] [Company] [Address]
[NOTE: A separate signature page is required for each settlor.]
Sierra Club v. EPA 18cv3472 NDCA
Tier 1
ED 002061 00116500-00042
