Nation wide, they are the only local government representatives certified to review spill contingency plans under the Federal Clean Water Act. Through their efforts, Washtenaw County is recognized for having the most proactive local environmental assistance program in the EPA Region 5. The business community increasingly accepts and supports the Pollution Prevention Program as a service that assists them with environmental and safety issues beyond the scope of local regulation. Inspectors have identified opportunities for process and technology modification that pay dividends in cost control. Facilities are notified of issues pertaining to state and federal regulations, giving them an opportunity to act before other agencies take enforcement action.
Property owners are also supportive because the inspections protect their property values.
Although staffing was reduced in 1998, all 312 required inspections were completed on schedule. By the end of the year 110 of the inspected sites achieved full compliance and were placed on reduced frequency inspections. Follow-up activities were used to address environmental and safety issues where appropriate. Corrections were confirmed through reinspections, contractor certifications, and photographs. Facilities that did not correct violations within 90 days will continue to be inspected annually.