Sludge Watch ==> Calif: Supervisors Extend Solano's Biosolids Program

[Maureen Reilly]

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http://www.timesheraldonline.com/ci_6749240


Supes extend Solano's biosolids program
By Danny Bernardini/The Reporter, Vacaville
08/29/2007


After four hours of discussion, Solano County's controversial biosolids 
program was extended Tuesday for at least five more years.
The Solano County Board of Supervisors voted 3-1 to extend the program 
through 2012. Had the supervisors not voted to extend the program, it would 
have continued under federal approval, possibly with weaker provisions than 
Solano County mandates.

Some supervisors voiced their concerns over unknown potential health risks. 
Supervisor Barbara Kondylis cast the lone dissenting vote and Supervisor 
John Silva did not attend the meeting.

The county's biosolids program allows use of a sludge-type material garnered 
from treated wastewater as a fertilizer in some rural areas. The program had 
been set to expire in October. In 2012, county staff will review the program 
and new information on health risks will be examined.

"I'm being asked to vote for something I don't believe in," Supervisor Jim 
Spering said. "But I really don't have a choice. I'm not expecting a 
solution. I just want to know what is being done."

Although the federal government sets the standards for biosolids, Solano 
County code has more protective requirements.

Experts onTuesday explained pharmaceuticals and personal care


products found in biosolids. Chemicals in these products are said to have 
health risks in animals and humans, but no evidence has been found by 
experts to back up this claim.