The State Senate and Assembly insist, that the proposed settlement between the Department of Environmental Protection and BASF, does not adequately protect residents from future development on the site. In addition, it does not sufficiently punish the corporation for its poisoning of local land and waters.
The settlement seems like a perfunctory act and allows the corporation to get away with minimal loss and responsibility. Allowing BASF to retain the remaining 250 acres, would enable BASF to use it for potential future projects, giving them the ability to make money off of this settlement. In addition, no agreement should be made without the representation of Toms River. Toms River residents were the ones that were affected by this misconduct, and they are the ones that will be affected by the results of this settlements.
It is only fair, and responsible to allow Toms River a voice in this. Mayor Maurice Hill, of Toms River, has stated that the preservation of open space is welcome news, and he appreciates the remediation of the pollution. However, he feels more is needed to make this a safe, fair, and lasting settlement.
