Title
RESOLUTION ASKING THAT THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY STUDY THE USAGE OF HYDROGEN FLUORIDE BY REFINERIES IN THE TWIN PORTS REGION.
Body
CITY PROPOSAL:
WHEREAS hydrogen fluoride is known to be a dangerous material that easily and quickly passes through the skin and into the tissues of the body.
WHEREAS on April 26, 2018, the Superior Husky Refinery explosion caused alarm and concern for the residents of Duluth and Superior as well as surrounding communities, in part because of the possibility of hydrogen fluoride being released into the Twin Ports.
WHEREAS the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board has formally requested that the Environmental Protection Agency study the use of hydrogen fluoride to determine best practices for safety and potential safer alternatives. Attachment A.
WHEREAS in a letter dated Tuesday, April 23, 2019 to Husky Refinery management, Mayor Emily Larson requested that Husky Refinery prove that the continued use of hydrogen fluoride is the safest choice for the Twin Ports compared to alternatives. Attachment B
WHEREAS the city of Duluth recognizes the importance of the refinery to the Twin Ports economy and hopes to see the facility reconstructed safely utilizing the talents of local tradeswoman and tradesmen.
BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Duluth formally requests that the Environmental Protection Agency further study the use of hydrogen fluoride in refineries to ensure the safety of local communities, such as the Twin Ports.
Statement of Purpose
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: This resolution requests that the Environmental Protection Agency study the use of hydrogen fluoride by refineries.