2018-09-26 Meeting Minutes (EMC)

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and they are working on modifying it. A brown water event is not designed just for a sewer overflow, because every sewer overflow and discharge has to be reported and documented. During Hurricane Lane, in which 54 inches of rain was received in four days, the brown water advisory was because of the surface runoff due to the excessive amount of water. It is his understanding that the DOH puts the advisory out. There is a lot of runoff from rainwater which is not in any way, shape, or form associated with a wastewater treatment plant. DEM did have a discharge from the Pua Pump Station which went to the discharge point 3/4 a mile offshore. Minimal ground surface water was contaminated. Sewer lids popped due to the excess water coming into the systems. Those were discharged and reported. Brown water advisories are designed by the DOH to keep people out of the water. The brown water alert during Hurricane Lane was not directly associated with sewer system overflows, but rather because the storm water impacted the beaches. Director Kucharski further stated that Councilmember Chung has asked for a presentation from DEM and other departments on October 2, 2018, and he will be providing the data to the Council. He can provide the data to the EMC. Brown water does not mean it is from the sewer—it is from a rain event. Commissioner Pequeño asked about signage, as he went to the beaches a few days after the storm and there were homemade signs taped to poles. Director Kucharski said that signage was put up by individuals and was not from the state or county. The DOH has the legislative responsibility for determining when signage is necessary. Commissioner Pequeño said it is a shame when nothing is done because it is not required, as in the case of the state not putting up signage. Director Kucharski said the state made a determination that the signs were not necessary—it was not that they didn’t feel like it. Their responsibility is to determine when signage is necessary and required. Commissioner Gaffney asked about signage specificity. Director Kucharski said DEM has signage approved by the state. If there is a release and a beach needs to be closed or a warning sign is required, DEM posts signs. Where they are posted is determined and approved by the DOH. He can provide a picture of one of their signs at the next meeting. 6. REPORTS/CORRESPONDENCE a. Director’s Informational Report • Status of the proposed Pāhala and Nāālʻehu wastewater treatment plants: A lawsuit has been filed against the County. Therefore, any discussion in open session will be limited. If they want more of a breakdown, he can provide it in executive session. Chair Bennett said that the EA has been published in The Environmental Notice, and it contains statements the EMC should speak to. Director Kucharski said there is a 30-day comment period, and informational meetings are scheduled on October 8, 9, and 10 in Pāhala. The meetings on October 8 and 9 are geared toward people who will be connected.