Source: http://www.app.com, June 3, 2014
By: Nicholas Huba
Seven years after shutting down a contaminated gas station on Route 88, state and ExxonMobil officials still are debating how to clean up the site.
Benzene, a clear petroleum-based chemical that can be poisonous, was detected in September 2013 in soil samples and off-site ground water, according to state Department of Environmental Protection records.
However, when the gas station closed, test showed contamination was within state standards, said Kevin Thompson, a spokesman for ExxonMobil. The site served as a gas station from 1968 to 2007, according to DEP records.
While no complaints have been filed with the DEP about the property, the site is included in the department’s Site Remediation Program due to the soil and groundwater contamination, said Bob Considine, a DEP spokesman.
More so, the cleanup has been delayed as environmental consultants continue to review the site, officials said.
“ExxonMobil is following department regulations, which are implemented by a New Jersey Licensed Site Remediation Professional, to determine the extent of soil and groundwater impacts at the site and the appropriate method of remediation to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of those working and living near the property,’’ Thompson said.
But William Post isn’t happy with the speed of the cleanup. His house abuts the former gas station, and he claims soil contamination caused by the gas station has forced the value of his home to drop more than $90,000, rendering it unsellable.
“My home was assessed at $211,700 in October 2009, now after the soil contamination was noticed, it’s down to $114,200,’’ said Post, 57. “Exxon ruined my American dream.’’
In response, Post filed a lawsuit against ExxonMobil in Superior Court in Ocean County in March 2012, seeking more than $90,000 in damages for lost property value. State Superior Court Judge Mark A. Tronconedismissed the suit last year, citing a lack of information.
Last week, Post filed an appeal.
Thompson said Exxon has tested the property and found nothing out of the ordinary.
“A subsequent environmental study revealed the presence of contaminants that extend several hundred feet to the south of the property boundary and 20 feet to 80 feet below ground. Mr. Post’s property lies north of the sit,’’ Thompson said. “Soil data collected near the property line with Mr. Post’s property shows that the contamination levels are below applicable New Jersey standards.’’
The property still sits vacate with rocks covering the area where a 1,000-gallon oil tank once sat. The tank was removed in May 2007, with no signs of cracks, according to DEP records.
The company has been open with the community, Thompson said. Since the start of the cleanup process, ExxonMobil has sent out public notices in accordance with state law.
“We have communicated openly with neighbors, community members and other interested parties about all work done at this site,’’ Thompson said. “ExxonMobil is committed to protecting the safety, health and welfare of its neighbors and workforce as the remediation moves forward.”