EPA to Hold Public Hearing on its Objection to Ohio’s Proposed Wastewater Discharge Permit for Port Clinton

EPA to Hold Public Hearing on its Objection to Ohio's Proposed Wastewater Discharge Permit for Port Clinton

December 13, 2024

CHICAGO (Dec. 13, 2024) - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a public comment period regarding the agency's objection to the state of Ohio's proposed wastewater discharge permit for the city of Port Clinton, Ohio. A public hearing is scheduled for Jan. 14, 2025, and the comment period will end on Jan. 17, 2025.

In April 2024, EPA objected to Ohio EPA's reissuance of Port Clinton's wastewater discharge permit because it does not limit discharges of phosphorus enough to meet water quality standards for Lake Erie. Phosphorus contributes to the formation of harmful algal blooms in the lake, which are a nuisance and pose risks to public health and aquatic life.

The Clean Water Act provides that EPA may object to a state's proposed National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. An objection stops the permit until the agencies resolve the issue. After the hearing and consideration of comments, EPA will reaffirm, modify or withdraw its objection.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the city requested a public hearing, which will be from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on January 14, 2025, in Building 600 at Camp Perry Lodging & Conference Center (1000 N. Lawrence Road, Port Clinton).

EPA will also accept written comments through 5 p.m. on January 17, 2025.

To submit comments and view copies of the permit, EPA objection letter and other information, please visit the online docket.

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