HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter #14 Bruce & Kathy Fleming
Shestak, Joe
From:Bruce Fleming <bafleming@telus.net>
Sent:Monday, May 3, 2021 6:23 AM
To:Shestak, Joe
Subject:Planning Commission item May 18
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
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Dear Commission Members,
I am in favor of the Carmel City Council proposal for a 500-foot public health safety zone for new gas
stations. I understand this amendment to the Carmel UDO (Unified Development Ordinance) will be
presented to the Carmel City Planning Commission on May 18th.
I've spent my entire professional career (over 40 years now) in the petroleum refining
industry. Refineries operate under strict OSHA and EPA guidelines that limit the exposure of our
employees, contractors *and the surrounding communities* to airborne benzene vapors. Our industry
has made extensive (and expensive) modifications to "seal" the benzene vapors and conduct ongoing
monitoring to assure compliance. Unfortunately, the State of Indiana does not require similar measures
for new gas stations to control benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen contained in gasoline, and
the vapors escape to the air from retail gasoline station underground storage tank vents and when we
fill our cars with gas.
Adjusting the UDO to require a 500-foot public health safety zone between new gas stations and
residential homes, senior care facilities, and schools is the *least* we should do.
Bruce & Kathy Fleming
13019 Tradd St., Carmel
email bafleming@telus.net
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