United States of America v. Magnolia Valley Plantation, LLC et al
Filing
6
ORDER granting 4 Motion for Relief from Local Rule 83.4(c); granting 5 Motion to Enter Consent Decree. The Court approves and adopts the attached Consent Decree as a final judgment. The Court directs the Clerk to administratively close this case. Signed by Chief Judge J. Randal Hall on 11/19/2018. (jlh)
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF GEORGIA
AUGUSTA DIVISION
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
*
*
Plaintiff,
*
5
*
V.
CV 118-055
5
MAGNOLIA VALLEY PLANTATION, LLC;
MAGNOLIA VALLEY, LLC; and
*
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MAGNOLIA HILLS, LLC,
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Defendants.
ORDER
Before the Court is Plaintiff's motion for relief from Local Rule
83.4(c) (Doc. 4) and Plaintiff's motion to enter the Consent Decree (Doc.
5).
The Court GRANTS both motions.
Under
Local
Rule
83.4(c),
(Docs. 4, 5.)
Rachael
Amy
Kamons,
counsel
for
Plaintiff, shall be relieved from being a member of the Southern District
of Georgia's bar.
The Court DIRECTS the Clerk to make the appropriate
notations to the record.
By signing the Consent Decree (Doc. 3-1), the Court APPROVES and
ADOPTS it as
a
final judgment.
Although the
Court will retain
jurisdiction for the duration of the Consent Decree to enforce or modify
its terms and resolve disputes arising under it, the Court DIRECTS the
Clerk to ADMINISTRATIVELY CLOSE this case.
ORDER ENTERED at Augusta, Georgia, this
day of November,
2018.
J. RAN
UNIT
SOUTHE
CHJ^F JUDGE
'ES DISTRICT JUDGE
DISTRICT OF GEORGIA
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF GEORGIA
AUGUSTA DIVISION
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
Plaintiff
V.
Case No. 1:18-CV-00055-JRH-BKE
MAGNOLIA VALLEY PLANTATION,LLC,
MAGNOLIA VALLEY,LLC,AND
MAGNOLIA HILLS, LLC,
Defendants.
CONSENT DECREE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
3
II.
APPLICABILITY
4
III.
DEFINITIONS
5
IV.
PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS
12
V.
CIVIL PENALTY
13
VI.
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
14
VII.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
28
VIII.
STIPULATED PENALTIES
31
IX.
FORCE MAJEURE
37
X.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
39
XI.
INFORMATION COLLECTION AND RETENTION
42
XII.
EFFECT OF SETTLEMENT/RESERVATION OF RIGHTS
44
XIII.
COSTS
45
XIV.
NOTICES
46
XV.
EFFECTIVE DATE
47
XVI.
RETENTION OF JURISDICTION
47
XVII. MODIFICATION
47
XVIII. TERMINATION
48
XIX.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
48
XX.
SIGNATORIES/SERVICE
49
XXI.
INTEGRATION
49
XXII. FINAL JUDGMENT
50
XXIII. APPENDICES
50
WHEREAS,Plaintiff United States of America, on behalf ofthe United States
Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA"), has filed a Complaint in this action concurrently
with this Consent Decree, alleging that Defendants violated Section 301 of the Clean Water Act
("CWA"),33 U.S.C. § 1311, and terms and conditions of applicable General Permits' issued by
the State of Georgia pursuant to Section 402 ofthe CWA,33 U.S.C. § 1342, and seeking
injunctive relief and civil penalties pursuant to Sections 309(b) and (d)of the CWA,33 U.S.C.
§§ 1319(b) and (d).
WHEREAS,the allegations in the Complaint concern Defendants' activities at a
residential development site covering the Magnolia Valley Plantation and Magnolia Hills (a/k/a
Magnolia Valley) developments, located off of William Few Parkway, at approximately 33.549°
N latitude by 82.205° W longitude, in Evans, Columbia County, Georgia, and as described in
Appendix A (hereafter, the "Site").
WHEREAS,the EPA is charged with the statutory duty of enforcing the CWA pursuant
to 33 U.S.C. § 1251 etseq. and the regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.
WHEREAS,each of Defendants Magnolia Valley Plantation, Magnolia Valley and
Magnolia Hills is a limited liability company organized and existing under the laws of the State
of Georgia with a principal place of business located in Evans, Georgia.
^ Plaintiff alleges that Defendants were in violation of the Authorization to Discharge under the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity for Common
Developments(Permit No. GAR100003),effective August 1, 2008("2008 General Permit")and the reissued
Authorization to Discharge under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Storm Water Discharges
Associated with Construction Activity for Common Developments(Permit No. GAR 100003), effective September
24, 2013("2013 General Permit")(together,"General Pennits").
WHEREAS,Aaron W. Sullivan, Jr.(hereafter "Sullivan"), a signatory to this Consent
Decree, is the president, managing member, owner, operator, and/or general contractor of
Defendants Magnolia Valley Plantation, Magnolia Valley and Magnolia Hills.
WHEREAS,the Complaint alleges that at all relevant times, one or more of the
Defendants owned, operated, or otherwise controlled the Site and/or otherwise financed or
controlled all activities relevant to the Complaint that occurred on the Site.
WHEREAS,GEPD issued General Permit No. GARl00003("Authorization to
Discharge Under The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Storm Water Discharges
Associated With Construction Activity For Common Developments") on August 1,2008
(hereafter, the "2008 General Permit"). The 2008 General Permit had an expiration date of July
31, 2013; however, pursuant to General Permit Part V.B.(Continuation of the Expired General
Permit), the permit continued "in full force and effect" until a new permit took effect.
WHEREAS,GEPD re-issued General Permit No. GAR 100003 on September 24, 2013
(hereafter, the "2013 General Permit"). The 2013 General Permit is set to expire on July 31,
2018.
WHEREAS,on February 14,2011, Defendants submitted a notice of intent("NOI")for
coverage under the 2003 General Permit for the Magnolia Hills development, which includes the
southeastern portion ofthe Site (hereafter "February 2011 Magnolia Hills NOI").
WHEREAS,on September 29, 2011, Defendants submitted a notice of intent for
coverage under the 2008 General Permit for the Magnolia Plantation development(hereafter
"September 2011 Magnolia Valley Plantation NOI"), which includes the northern and
southwestern portions ofthe Site.
WHEREAS,on December 23, 2013, Defendants submitted a notice of intent for coverage
under the reissued 2013 General Permit for the Magnolia Valley (f/k/a Magnolia Hills)
development(hereafter "December 2013 Magnolia Hills NOI").
WHEREAS,on December 23,2013, Defendants submitted a notice of intent for coverage
under the reissued 2013 General Permit for the Magnolia Plantation development(a/k/a
Magnolia Valley Plantation)(hereafter "December 2013 Magnolia Valley Plantation NOI").
WHEREAS,Defendants do not admit any liability to the United States arising out of the
transactions or occurrences alleged in the Complaint.
WHEREAS,Defendants have sold portions ofthe Site.
WHEREAS,although Defendants have not yet filed Notices of Termination ("NOTs")
for all portions of the Site, Defendants have ceased, and do not intend to resume. Construction
Activity (as defined herein) on all portions of the Site.
WHEREAS,the Parties recognize, and the Court by entering this Consent Decree finds,
that this Consent Decree has been negotiated by the Parties in good faith and will avoid litigation
between the Parties and that this Consent Decree is fair, reasonable, and in the public interest.
NOW,THEREFORE, before the taking of any testimony, without the adjudication or
admission of any issue offact or law except as provided in Section 1, and with the consent of the
Parties, IT IS HEREBY ADJUDGED,ORDERED,AND DECREED as follows:
I.
1.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
This Court has Jurisdiction over the subject matter ofthis action, pursuant to
28 U.S.C. §§ 1331, 1345, and 1355, and Section 309(b) of the Clean Water Act("CWA" or
"Act"), 33 U.S.C. § 1319(b), and over the Parties. Venue lies in this District pursuant to 33
U.S.C. § 1319(b), and 28 U.S.C. §§ 1391(b) and (c) and 1395(a), because Defendants Magnolia
Valley Plantation, Magnolia Valley and Magnolia Hills are incorporated and/or conduct business
in this District, because the violations occurred in this District, and because Sullivan resides
and/or conducts business in this District. For purposes ofthis Decree, or any action to enforce
this Decree, Magnolia Affiliates consent to the Court's jurisdiction over this Decree and any
such action and over Magnolia Affiliates, and they consent to venue in this Judicial district.
2.
For purposes of this Consent Decree, Defendants agree that the Complaint states
claims upon which relief may be granted pursuant to Section 309 ofthe CWA.
II.
3.
APPLICABILITY
Parties Bound. The obligations of this Consent Decree apply to and are binding
upon the United States, and upon all Magnolia Affiliates. This Consent Decree shall not be
binding on any purchaser of real property who is not an entity otherwise covered by this Consent
Decree.
4.
Responsibilitv for Acts of Others.
a.
Magnolia Affiliates shall be responsible for compliance with Storm Water
Requirements at the Site and any Additional Site, except as set forth in
Subparagraph 4.b.
b.
If the Site or any Additional Site (or portion thereof) is transferred to an
entity that is not a Magnolia Affiliate, Magnolia Affiliates shall no longer
be responsible for compliance with Storm Water Requirements and
therefore not subject to the stipulated penalties at the transferred site (or
portion thereof) except to the extent that Magnolia Affiliates remain
responsible under the Applicable Permit for the site (or portion thereof).
Magnolia Affiliates shall not be responsible for BMPs or Construction
Activity by Secondary Permittees nor subject to stipulated penalties for
Secondary Permittees' permit noncompliance.
c.
In any action to enforce this Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall not
assert as a defense the failure by any officer, employee, agent, or
contractors to take any actions necessary to comply with the provisions of
this Consent Decree, unless Magnolia Affiliates establish that the failure
resulted from a Force Majeure event defined in Section IX.
5.
Transfer of Ownership. No transfer ofownership or operation of any portion of
the Site, whether in compliance with the procedures ofthis Paragraph or otherwise, shall relieve
Magnolia Affiliates of their obligation to ensure that the terms ofthe Decree are implemented,
except as set forth in Subparagraph 4.b.
6.
Magnolia Affiliates shall provide a copy of this Consent Decree to all officers,
employees, and agents whose duties might reasonably include compliance with any provision of
this Decree, as well as to any contractor retained to perform work required under this Consent
Decree. Magnolia Affiliates shall condition any such contract regarding the Site and/or any
Additional Site upon performance ofthe work in conformity with the terms ofthis Consent
Decree.
7.
Magnolia Affiliates shall not alter their general corporate structure or enter into
agreements with third parties for the primary purpose of directly or indirectly circumventing the
requirements ofthis Consent Decree.
III.
8.
DEFINITIONS
Terms used in this Consent Decree that are defined in the CWA or in regulations
promulgated pursuant to the CWA shall have the meanings assigned to them in the CWA or such
regulations, unless otherwise provided in this Decree. Whenever the terms set forth below are
used in this Consent Decree, the following definitions shall apply:
a.
"Act" or "Clean Water Act" shall mean the Federal Water Pollution Control Act,
as amended, 33 U.S.C. §§ 1251-1387.
b.
"Additional Site" shall mean any location other than the Site for which any
Magnolia Affiliate has executed a contract (verbally or in writing) involving the
Magnolia Affiliate's Construction Activity and/or any location for which one or
more Magnolia Affiliate either has(1)operational control over construction plans
and specifications, including the ability to make modifications to those plans and
specifications; or(2) day-to day operational control of those activities at a project
which are necessary to ensure compliance with the Storm Water Requirements for
the site or other permit conditions {e.g., they are authorized to direct workers at a
site to carry out activities required by the Storm Water Requirements or to comply
with other Permit conditions) and at which there is or will be Construction
Activity impacting at least one acre or which is otherwise subject to the National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System ("NPDES")storm water construction
regulations set forth at 40 C.F.R. § 122.26(b)(14)(x) or 40 C.F.R. § 122.26(b)(15).
"Additional Site" does not include the "Exempt Site," as defined below.
c.
"Applicable Manual" shall mean the version ofthe Manual (as defined below)
that is in effect at the time ofthe compliance activity, including but not limited to:
(i)the 2016 Edition ofthe Manual, approved on November 19, 2015, and
effective January 1, 2016; and (ii) any subsequent Manual edition published by
the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Committee or successor entity.
d.
"Applicable Permit(s)" shall mean (i) the 2008 General Permit(as defined below),
(ii) the 2013 General Permit(as defined below), or (iii) any individual NPDES
permit issued by EPA or an authorized governmental entity regarding storm water
discharges associated with Construction Activities pursuant to 33 U.S.C. § 1342
with which Magnolia Affiliates must comply. This term applies to any such
permit in its current form or as it may be amended in the future.
;.
"Best Management Practices" or "BMPs" shall mean the same as the term is
defined in the Applicable Permit. If the term is not defined in the permit, then
"BMP" shall mean the same as the term is defined in 40 C.F.R. § 122.2 in its form
as of the Effective Date or as it may be amended in the future. As ofthe Effective
Date, that definition is "schedules of activities, prohibitions of practices,
maintenance procedures, and other management practices to prevent or reduce the
pollution of'waters of the United States.' BMPs also include treatment
requirements, operating procedures, and practices to control ... site runoff,
spillage or leaks, sludge or waste disposal, or drainage from raw material storage."
f.
"Calendar Quarter" shall mean the three(3) Month periods ending on March 31,
June 30, September 30, and December 31.
g.
"Complaint" shall mean the complaint filed by the United States in this action.
h.
"Consent Decree" or "Decree" shall mean this Decree and all appendices attached
hereto (listed in Section XXIII).
i.
"Construction Activity" means the disturbance of soils associated with clearing,
grading, excavating, filling of land, or other similar activities which may result in
soil erosion and which is subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System ("NPDES")storm water construction regulations set forth at 40 C.F.R.
§ 122.26(b)(14)(x)or40 C.F.R. § 122.26(b)(15).
j.
"Contractor(s)" shall mean any of the Magnolia Affiliates' consultants,
contractors or sub-contractors at a Site or Additional Site, including any
employees of the consultants, contractors or subcontractors working at a Site,
k.
"Corrective Action" shall mean any action taken to (1) repair, modify, or replace
any storm water control used at a Site or Additional Site;(2)clean up and dispose
of spills, releases or other deposits found on a Site; or(3)remedy a permit
violation.
1.
The "County" shall mean Columbia County, Georgia.
m.
"Day" shall mean a calendar day unless expressly stated to be a business day. In
computing any period of time under this Consent Decree, where the last day
would fall on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday, the period shall run until the
close of business of the next business day.
n.
"Defendants" shall mean Magnolia Valley Plantation, LLC, Magnolia Valley,
LLC,and Magnolia Hills, LLC.
o.
"Effective Date" shall have the definition provided in Section XV.
p.
"Escrow Account" shall have the meaning provided in Section IV.
q.
"Exempt Site" shall mean one parcel of real property and/or land (I) which is
owned or operated in whole or in part by Mr. Sullivan in his personal capacity
{i.e., not in his capacity as a member of any Magnolia Affiliates entity and not
jointly with any Magnolia Affiliates entity) continuously either (i)from the
Effective Date of this Consent Decree or (ii) from the date of purchase of the
property or land, whichever occurs later, until termination ofthis Consent Decree;
(2) which has or will have Construction Activity, subject to NPDES storm water
regulations set forth at 40 C.F.R. § 122.26(b)(14)(x) or 40 C.F.R. § 122.26(b)(15),
impacting no more than 10 acres in size;(3) which has or will have no more than
two residential homes, not including non-dwelling outbuildings such as a bam or
a garage, built thereon; and (4)for which Mr. Sullivan has complied with the
obligation to notify EPA as set forth in Paragraph 30 of this Decree, if applicable.
For purposes ofthis Consent Decree, there shall only be one Exempt Site, which
shall be designated upon notification to the United States in accordance with
Section XIV (Notices),
r.
"EPA" shall mean the United States Environmental Protection Agency and any of
its successor departments or agencies,
s.
"GEPD" shall mean the State of Georgia Environmental Protection Division,
t.
"Independent Third Party Verifier" or "Verifier" shall mean a person or company
which meets the qualifications set forth in Paragraph 21.
u.
"Magnolia Affiliates" shall mean Defendants, Sullivan, any current or future
entity over which any Defendant and/or its successors or assigns has either(a)
ownership and operational control or(b)day to day operational control over
Construction Activity, and/or any current or future entity over which Sullivan has
either(a) ownership and operational control or(b)day to day operational control
over Construction Activity.
V.
"Manual" shall mean the Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control in Georgia, as
prepared by the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission.
w.
"Month" shall mean one(1)calendar month running from the numbered day to
the same numbered day of the following calendar month, regardless of whether
the particular month has 28, 29, 30 or 31 days. In the event a triggered event
would occur on a day ofthe month which does not exist(for example, on
February 30), then the event shall be due on the first day ofthe following month
(for example, March 1).
X.
"Notice of Intent" or "NOI" shall mean a request for coverage under an
Applicable Permit.
y.
"Notice of Termination" or"NOT" shall mean notification that coverage under an
Applicable Permit is ready for termination,
z.
"NPDES" shall mean the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System,
created pursuant to the CWA,33 U.S.C. §§ 1251 etseq.
aa.
"Paragraph" shall mean a portion ofthis Decree identified by an Arabic numeral,
bb.
"Parties" shall mean the United States, Defendants, and Magnolia Affiliates,
cc.
"Responsive Action" shall mean an action taken or that is necessary to be taken to
achieve or maintain compliance with Storm Water Requirements, including
Corrective Actions.
dd.
"Section" shall mean a portion of this Decree identified by a Roman numeral,
ee.
"Site" shall mean the residential development site covering the Magnolia Valley
Plantation and Magnolia Hills (a/k/a Magnolia Valley) developments, located off
of William Few Parkway, at approximately 33.549 N latitude by 82.205 W
longitude, in Evans, Columbia County, Georgia, and as described in Appendix A.
ff.
"State" shall mean the State of Georgia.
10
gg.
"Storm Water Compliance Manager" shall mean a person or individual who is
certified to perform inspections under the Applicable Permit and is retained by
Magnolia Affiliates for any Additional Site to perform compliance inspections as
required by the Permit and Section VI(Compliance Requirements)ofthis
Consent Decree. This Decree does not require retention of a Storm Water
Compliance Manager for the Site,
hh.
"Storm Water Requirements" shall mean the terms and conditions ofthis Decree,
the applicable provisions of the CWA,applicable implementing regulations, the
Applicable Permit, the laws and regulations that apply, interpret, or enforce the
Applicable Permit, and the Applicable Manual, in their form as of the Effective
Date or as any of the foregoing requirements may be amended in the future, for
the Site and/or any Additional Site,
ii.
"SWPPP" shall mean a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan or other plan such
as an Erosion, Sedimentation and Pollution Control Plan for controlling pollutants
in storm water discharges from the Site or Additional Site that meets the
requirements of Paragraph 16(SWPPP)and/or Paragraph 17(SWPPP Updates),
jj.
"United States" shall mean the United States of America, acting on behalf of
EPA.
kk.
The "2003 General Permit" shall mean General Permit No. GARl00003,
"Authorization to Discharge Under The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System Storm Water Discharges Associated With Construction Activity For
Common Developments" issued on August 13, 2003. The 2003 General Permit
had an expiration date of July 31, 2008; however, pursuant to General Permit Part
11
V.B.(Continuation of the Expired General Permit), the permit continued "in full
force and effect" until a new permit took effect.
11.
The "2008 General Permit" shall mean General Permit No. GARl00003,
"Authorization to Discharge Under The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System Storm Water Discharges Associated With Construction Activity For
Common Developments," which was reissued on August 1,2008. The 2008
General Permit had an expiration date of July 31,2013; however, pursuant to
General Permit Part V.B.(Continuation ofthe Expired General Permit), the
permit continued "in full force and effect" until a new permit took effect.
mm.
The "2013 General Permit" shall mean General Permit No. GAR 100003,
"Authorization to Discharge Under The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System Storm Water Discharges Associated With Construction Activity For
Common Developments," which was reissued on September 23,2013. The 2013
General Permit is set to expire on July 31, 2018.
IV.
9.
PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS
Within 14 Days after lodging this Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall
establish an interest-bearing escrow account for the benefit of the United States (hereafter
"Escrow Account"). The Escrow Account shall provide that the funds placed therein are
specifically and irrevocably reserved for payment ofthe civil penalty set forth in Section V and
to purchase wetlands credits as set forth in Paragraph 23.
10.
Magnolia Affiliates shall send notice of the establishment of the Escrow Account
(i) to the United States via email or regular mail in accordance with Section XIV; and (ii) to EPA
Region 4 in accordance with Section XIV. Such notice shall provide proof of account
12
establishment and list the account information, and shall reference the civil action number and
DOJ case number 90-5-1-1-11410.
V.
11.
CIVIL PENALTY
Within 20 Days after lodging ofthis Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall
deposit the sum of $45,000 into the Escrow Account to be used to pay the civil penalty as
described in paragraph 13 below.
12.
Within 30 Days after the Effective Date, Magnolia Affiliates shall pay from the
Escrow Account the civil penalty amount specified in the preceding paragraph, together with any
interest that has accrued in the Escrow Account.
13.
Magnolia Affiliates shall pay the civil penalty due at pay.gov or via FedWire
Electronic Funds Transfer("EFT")to the U.S. Department of Justice account, in accordance with
instructions provided to Magnolia Affiliates by the Financial Litigation Unit("FLU")ofthe
United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia after the Effective Date. The
payment instructions provided by the FLU will include a Consolidated Debt Collection System
("CDCS")number, which Magnolia Affiliates shall use to identify all payments required to be
made in accordance with this Consent Decree. The FLU will provide the payment instructions to:
Aaron W. Sullivan, Jr., P.O. Box 1550, Evans, OA 30809
Telephone:(706)830-1888; E-mail: aaronwsullivan@att.net
on behalf of Magnolia Affiliates. Magnolia Affiliates may change the individual to receive
payment instructions on their behalf by providing written notice of such change to the United
States and EPA in accordance with Section XIV (Notices).
At the time of payment. Magnolia Affiliates shall send notice that payment has been
made:(i) to EPA via email at cinwd_acctsreceivable@epa.gov or via regular mail at EPA
Cincinnati Finance Office, 26 W. Martin Luther King Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268;(ii) to the
13
United States via email or regular mail in accordance with Section XIV; and (iii) to EPA Region
4 in accordance with Section XIV. Such notice shall state that the payment is for the civil penalty
owed pursuant to the Consent Decree in United States v. Magnolia Valley Plantation, LLC, et al.
and shall reference the civil action number, CDCS Number and DOJ case number 90-5-1-111410.
14.
Magnolia Affiliates shall not deduct any penalties paid under this Decree pursuant
to this Section or Section VIII (Stipulated Penalties) in calculating their federal income taxes.
VI.
15.
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
Magnolia Affiliates shall comply with all applicable requirements ofthe Act,
regulations issued pursuant to the Act, and all practices, standards, and limits contained in all
Applicable Permits issued to Magnolia Affiliates.
16.
SWPPP.
a.
All SWPPPs and SWPPP amendments shall comply with all applicable
Storm Water Requirements.
b.
Prior to Magnolia Affiliates undertaking any Construction Activity at an
Additional Site, Magnolia Affiliates shall prepare a Site-specific SWPPP
for the Additional Site, in accordance with and in compliance with the
applicable Storm Water Requirements.
c.
Magnolia Affiliates shall modify the SWPPP as necessary under the
requirements ofthe applicable Storm Water Requirements. If at any time
the SWPPP is not in compliance. Magnolia Affiliates shall amend the
SWPPP as necessary to bring it into compliance. In addition. Magnolia
14
Affiliates shall ensure that the SWPPP for each Additional Site meets the
criteria set forth in the Applicable Permit.
17.
SWPPP Updates. For each Additional Site, Magnolia Affiliates shall revise,
update and supplement the SWPPP used for that Additional Site:
a.
If there is a change in design, construction method, operation or
maintenance at the Additional Site that has or may have an effect on the
discharge of pollutants to surface waters including wetlands;
b.
In the event of a Repeated BMP Failure, in accordance with Paragraph 18
(BMPs), below; or
c.
To record any changes to the BMPs that result from the inspections
required by Paragraph 20(Compliance Inspections), or as otherwise
identified.
d.
The SWPPP,and any modifications thereto, shall be prepared by a Storm
Water Compliance Manager and signed in accordance with the
requirements of the applicable storm water regulations or Applicable
Permit. The SWPPP preparer shall certify on the SWPPP that it was
developed using the criteria set forth in the Applicable Permit.
18.
BMPs.
a.
Magnolia Affiliates shall implement all BMPs as required by the SWPPP
and the applicable Storm Water Requirements.
b.
If Magnolia Affiliates identifies during a self-inspection required by the
Applicable Permit a missing, ineffective, or breached BMP for which
Magnolia Affiliates is responsible under the Applicable Permit, Magnolia
15
Affiliates shall (i) report the issue and any Responsive Actions in the
applicable Quarterly Report in accordance with Section VII (Reporting
Requirements);(ii) correct the missing, ineffective or breached BMP
within the time required by and otherwise in accordance with the terms of
the Applicable Permit and SWPPP, but no later than seven (7)Days after
identification;(iii) install or modify all required additional or different
BMPs in accordance with the terms ofthe Applicable Permit and SWPPP;
and (iv) modify the SWPPP to reflect those changes in accordance with
the terms ofthe Applicable Permit and SWPPP.
c.
Magnolia Affiliates shall verify whether all identified correction and/or
maintenance activities have been performed and,for each Additional Site,
shall so indicate during the next inspection conducted pursuant to
Paragraph 20(Compliance Inspections) by initialing the Site Inspection
Form (Appendix B)on or near the corresponding entry.
19,
Designation of Storm Water Compliance Manager.
a.
No later than five(5)Days after the Effective Date or fifteen (15)Days
prior to Magnolia Affiliates' commencement of Construction Activity,
whichever is later. Magnolia Affiliates shall submit in writing a notice to
the United States identifying for each Additional Site one employee or
Contractor who will serve as the Storm Water Compliance Manager to
oversee Additional Site storm water compliance activities and perform
compliance inspections as required by the Permit and Paragraph 20 below.
The Storm Water Compliance Manager shall (i) have successfully
16
completed the appropriate certification course approved by the State Soil
and Water Conservation Commission;(ii) have the authority and
responsibility to manage all Additional Site activities necessary to meet
the Storm Water Requirements at the Additional Site;(iii) have the
authority to order any person to stop any work at the Additional Site when
necessary to comply with the Storm Water Requirements;(iv) ensure that
a SWPPP has been completed and complies with the Applicable Permit
and the Storm Water Requirements prior to commencement of
Construction Activity at the Additional Site;(v) have the authority and
responsibility to certify and cause the Additional Site's SWPPP to be
amended as necessary; and (vi) develop and submit to EPA the Quarterly
Reports in accordance with Section VII (Reporting Requirements).
b.
The Storm Water Compliance Manager shall maintain his or her
certification as current, pursuant to the applicable certification
requirements.
c.
Magnolia Affiliates may retain the same person or individual to serve as
Storm Water Compliance Manager for multiple Additional Sites.
d.
Magnolia Affiliates may change the Storm Water Compliance Manager
for any Additional Site by providing EPA with written notice ofthe
change pursuant to Section XIV and submitting evidence that the new
person selected meets the criteria set forth in this Paragraph.
e.
Notice ofthe Storm Water Compliance Manager's Email Address and
Phone Number. Magnolia Affiliates shall post a conspicuous notice (i)
17
providing the email address and telephone number of Magnolia Affiliates'
Storm Water Compliance Manager in their construction office or, in the
absence of a construction office, in another conspicuous location at the
Additional Site, and (ii) authorizing all employees and Contractors to
contact the Storm Water Compliance Manager at the Additional Site with
any questions or to report problems relating to sediment and erosion
control at any Additional Site. If Magnolia Affiliates' designated Storm
Water Compliance Manager is not available to answer the phone at any
time. Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure that a person or machine shall be
available to answer or record a message and that those messages are
retrieved and addressed within a reasonable time. Likewise, Magnolia
Affiliates shall ensure that emails are retrieved and addressed within a
reasonable time.
20.
Compliance Inspections for Additional Sites.
a.
At a minimum, commencing no later than the date required by the
Applicable Permit, or 30 Days after the Effective Date, whichever is
earlier, a Storm Water Compliance Manager shall inspect each Additional
Site at least at the frequency required by the Applicable Permit but not less
frequently than every seven (7)Days and within twenty-four(24) hours of
a 0.5 inch rain event.
b.
Site Inspection: For each Additional Site, the Storm Water Compliance
Manager shall inspect the entire Additional Site to:
18
(1)
determine whether all Construction Activity for the Additional Site
is being conducted in accordance with the requirements ofthe
SWPPP and the applicable Storm Water Requirements;
(2)
determine whether the SWPPP for the Additional Site is being
updated and implemented in accordance with the applicable Storm
Water Requirements;
(3)
identify and record all repairs, maintenance, modifications or other
work made to, or needed for, existing BMPs at the Additional Site
to ensure that they are maintained in effective operating condition;
(4)
identify and record BMPs which need to be repaired, maintained,
modified and/or added to prevent any discharges of pollutants from
the Additional Site into waters of the United States, including
wetlands; and
(5)
identify and record any discharge of pollutants from the Additional
Site into waters ofthe United States, including wetlands.
c.
The Storm Water Compliance Manager shall record each Site Inspection
on the Site Inspection Form (Appendix B)that shall be certified in
accordance with the terms of the Applicable Permit. Magnolia Affiliates
shall submit the Site Inspection Forms with their Quarterly Reports, in
accordance with Section VII (Reporting Requirements).
21.
Third-Partv Oversight for Additional Sites. The provisions ofthis paragraph shall
apply to all Additional Sites for which Magnolia Affiliates is engaged in Construction Activity,
where the Additional Site, after development and through the date oftermination of this Consent
19
Decree in accordance with Section XVIII, will contain at least one residential and/or commercial
unit not owned by Magnolia Affiliates. Consistent with the aforementioned provisions, Mr.
Sullivan's personal property and land that is not sold during the time frame of this Consent
Decree is exempt from the Third-Party Oversight requirements of this paragraph:
a.
Magnolia Affiliates will retain, at their expense, an Independent Third
Party Verifier to conduct a comprehensive verification of Magnolia
Affiliates' compliance with the requirements set forth in this Section VI
(Compliance Requirements)ofthe Consent Decree for each Additional
Site. In addition, the Independent Third Party Verifier shall, at Magnolia
Affiliates' expense, perform the tasks set forth in this Paragraph 21.
b.
Magnolia Affiliates shall require that the Verifier act independently and
objectively when performing third-party services set forth in this
Paragraph 21. Magnolia Affiliates shall provide the Verifier with full
access to all Additional Sites and provide or otherwise make available any
necessary personnel, documents, and databases to fully perform all
activities and services required under this Paragraph 21.
c.
At least fourteen (14) Days prior to commencement of Construction
Activities at each Additional Site, Magnolia Affiliates shall submit to the
United States a list ofcandidates to serve as Independent Third Party
Verifier, The list shall include at least two candidates. Magnolia Affiliates
shall certify that each candidate meets the conditions set forth in
Subparagraphs 21.d - 21.g below; however, the United States, in its
unreviewable exercise of discretion may waive one or more ofthese
20
requirements. If requested. Magnolia Affiliates shall provide resumes,
biographical information, and other relevant material concerning the
candidates, including information on the relationship between Magnolia
Affiliates and the candidates.
d.
The Independent Third Party Verifier has demonstrated experience in
compliance with the Applicable Permits.
e.
The Independent Third Party Verifier has not conducted research,
development, design, construction, financial, engineering, legal,
consulting nor other advisory services for Magnolia Affiliates.
f.
The Independent Third Party Verifier was not involved in the development
of the Site or any Additional Sites.
g.
The Independent Third Party Verifier will not provide any other
commercial, business or voluntary services to Magnolia Affiliates for a
period of at least three (3) years following the termination ofthis Consent
Decree.
h.
The Magnolia Affiliates will not provide future employment to any ofthe
Verifier's personnel who conducted or otherwise participated in the Third
Party Verification for a period of at least three(3) years following the
termination of this Consent Decree.
i.
The United States will notify Magnolia Affiliates in writing whether it
approves of a proposed Independent Third Party Verifier. Within fourteen
(14)Days ofthe United States' approval, Magnolia Affiliates shall retain
such Verifier to perform the verification activities set forth in this Section
21
VI(Compliance Requirements)ofthis Consent Decree for each
Additional Site. Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure that all personnel who
conduct or otherwise participate in verification activities on behalf of the
Independent Third Party Verifier shall certify that they satisfy the
conditions set forth in Subparagraphs 21.d - 21.g above before receiving
any payment from Magnolia Affiliates.
j.
If the United States rejects a proposed Independent Third Party Verifier,
within fourteen (14)Days of receipt ofthe United States' notification,
Magnolia Affiliates shall submit to the United States for approval another
proposed Verifier that meets the qualifications set forth in Subparagraphs
21.d - 21.g above. The United States will review the proposed replacement
in accordance with Subparagraph 21 .i. Nothing in this Subparagraph
precludes the United States from assessing stipulated penalties for missed
verification deadlines associated with the need to replace an Independent
Third Party Verifier unless Magnolia Affiliates successfully assert that the
inability of the Verifier to perform the verification activities as required
was a Force Majeure event in accordance Section IX of this Consent
Decree.
k.
Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure that their contract with the Verifier
explicitly requires the Verifier to review and report to EPA on the
following requirements at each of Magnolia Affiliates' Additional Sites at
least once per Calendar Quarter. The report ("Verification Report") shall
be submitted concurrently to EPA and Magnolia Affiliates within 1 Month
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after the end of each Calendar Quarter and may be reviewed by EPA to
assess Magnolia Affiliates' compliance with this Consent Decree and the
Applicable Permits.
(1)
All BMPs set forth in the applicable SWPPP are installed (to be
documented photographically by the Verifier);
(2)
All BMPs at the Additional Site are being evaluated by Magnolia
Affiliates as required by this Section VI(Compliance
Requirements);
(3)
BMP failures are being properly identified, reported and addressed
by Magnolia Affiliates, as required by this Section VI (Compliance
Requirements) and the Applicable Permit;
(4)
Stream impacts are being properly identified, reported and
addressed by Magnolia Affiliates, as required by this Section VI
(Compliance Requirements) and the Applicable Permit;
(5)
Compliance with the Applicable Permit is being properly assessed
and reported to EPA by Magnolia Affiliates;
(6)
Site Inspection Forms are properly completed by the Storm Water
Compliance Manager and contain accurate information, in
accordance with Paragraph 20(Compliance Inspections).
In addition to reporting on the conditions set forth in Subparagraph 21.k
above. Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure through their contract with the
Verifier that the Verification Report meets with the following
requirements:
23
(1)
Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure that the Verifier does not share
any draft or preliminary audit findings or reports with Magnolia
Affiliates in any format (electronic, paper, or verbal).
(2)
Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure that the Verifier does not share its
audit conclusions with Magnolia Affiliates until the Verifier
submits its Verification Report(s)to EPA.
(3)
The Verification Report submitted to EPA shall include all
findings, conclusions, monitoring results and other observations of
the Verifier.
(4)
The Verification Report shall include copies of all documents
reviewed and identify all personnel interviewed in support of the
Report.
(5)
Magnolia Affiliates shall require the Verifier to include in the
Verification Report submitted to EPA a certification that the
Verifier has remained in compliance with all of the conditions set
forth in this Paragraph 21, and will continue to follow such
conditions until three years after the final Verification Report is
submitted.
(6)
The Verification Report, or any information developed by or any
findings of the Verifier, shall not be subject to any privilege or
protection.
22.
Availabilitv of Permit and SWPPP. During working hours on all Business Days,
Magnolia Affiliates shall ensure that a copy of the Applicable Permit and SWPPP,including all
24
SWPPP modifications, are available at the Additional Site for review by any Contractor or
employee of Magnolia Affiliates, as well as by any local, state, or federal inspector in accordance
with Paragraph 65(Right of Entry) or any other permit, law, or regulation then in effect. If there
is no construction office onsite, the SWPPP, including all modifications, shall be kept at a nearby
location where it can be easily accessed upon request, and the location ofthe SWPPP shall be
posted at the Additional Site.
23.
Wetlands Credits.
a.
Within 20 Days after lodging of this Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates
shall deposit the sum of $60,000 into the Escrow Account,to be used to
purchase wetlands credits, as described in subparagraph 23.b, below.
b.
Within thirty(30) Days after the Effective Date of this Consent Decree,
Magnolia Affiliates shall pay from the Escrow Account the $60,000
specified in subparagraph 23.a to purchase wetlands credits in accordance
with subparagraph 23.c.
c.
The wetlands credits shall be purchased from a mitigation bank approved
by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the primary service area of the
Site, or in the secondary service area if insufficient credits are available in
the primary service area, or In-Lieu-Fee funding if insufficient credits are
available at both the primary service area and secondary service area.
Upon purchasing the credits and/or In-Lieu-Fee funding as required by
this Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall provide proof of purchase
to DOJ and EPA at the addresses specified in Section XIV (Notices) of
this Consent Decree.
25
d.
As of the Effective Date of this Consent Decree, Nationwide Permit 32, 77
Fed. Reg. 10,184(Feb. 21, 2012), authorizes any fill that was discharged
at the Site to remain in place, subject to the conditions provided in
Nationwide Permit 32.
e.
Except as in accordance with this Consent Decree, Defendants and their
agents, successors and assigns and any Magnolia Affiliate are enjoined
from discharging any pollutant into waters ofthe United States, unless
such discharge complies with the provisions of the CWA and its
implementing regulations.
24.
Approval of Deliverables. After review of any plan, report, or other item that is
required to be submitted pursuant to this Consent Decree, EPA shall in writing:(a)approve the
submission;(b)approve the submission upon specified conditions;(c) approve part ofthe
submission and disapprove the remainder; or(d) disapprove the submission.
25.
If the submission is approved pursuant to Paragraph 24, Magnolia Affiliates shall
take all actions required by the plan, report, or other document, in accordance with the schedules
and requirements ofthe plan, report, or other document, as approved. If the submission is
conditionally approved or approved only in part pursuant to Paragraph 24(b)or (c). Magnolia
Affiliates shall, upon written direction from EPA,take ail actions required by the approved plan,
report, or other item that EPA determines are technically severable from any disapproved
portions, subject to Magnolia Affiliates' right to dispute only the specified conditions or the
disapproved portions, under Section X (Dispute Resolution).
26.
If the submission is disapproved in whole or in part pursuant to Paragraph 24(c)
or (d). Magnolia Affiliates shall, within forty-five (45)days or such other time as the Parties
26
agree to in writing, correct all deficiencies and resubmit the plan, report, or other item, or
disapproved portion thereof, for approval, in accordance with the preceding Paragraphs. If the
resubmission is approved in whole or in part. Magnolia Affiliates shall proceed in accordance
with the preceding Paragraph.
27.
If a resubmitted plan, report, or other item, or portion thereof, is disapproved in
whole or in part, EPA may again require Magnolia Affiliates to correct any deficiencies, in
accordance with the preceding Paragraphs, or may itself correct any deficiencies, subject to
Magnolia Affiliates' right to invoke Dispute Resolution and the right ofEPA to seek stipulated
penalties as provided in the preceding Paragraphs.
28.
Any stipulated penalties applicable to the original submission, as provided in
Section VIII, shall accrue during the forty-five (45) Day period or other specified period, but
shall not be payable unless the resubmission is untimely or is disapproved in whole or in part;
provided that, if the original submission was so deficient as to constitute a material breach of
Magnolia Affiliates' obligations under this Decree, the stipulated penalties applicable to the
original submission shall be due and payable notwithstanding any subsequent resubmission.
29.
Permits. Where any compliance obligation under this Section requires Magnolia
Affiliates to obtain a federal, state, or local permit or approval. Magnolia Affiliates shall submit
timely and complete applications and take all other actions necessary to obtain all such permits
or approvals. Magnolia Affiliates may seek relief under the provisions of Section IX (Force
Majeure)for any delay in the performance of any such obligation resulting from a failure to
obtain, or a delay in obtaining, any permit or approval required to fulfill such obligation, if
Magnolia Affiliates have submitted timely and complete applications and have taken all other
actions necessary to obtain all such permits or approvals.
27
30.
Notification of Permit Coverage for the Exempt Site. Where a federal, state, or
local permit or approval is required for an Exempt Site, Mr. Sullivan shall provide EPA with
notice ofthe permit or approval request and any follow-up communications in accordance with
Section XIV (Notices).
VII.
31.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Site Reports. Beginning on the Effective Date ofthis Consent Decree, Magnolia
Affiliates shall submit electronically in accordance with Section XIV (Notices)to EPA a copy of
all reports required to be submitted to GEPD and/or the County for the Site pursuant to the
Applicable Permit.
32.
Ouarterlv Reports. Beginning one (1) Month after the first Calendar Quarter
following the Effective Date of this Consent Decree, and one(1) Month after each Calendar
Quarter thereafter until termination of this Decree pursuant to Section XVIII, Magnolia Affiliates
shall submit electronically in accordance with Section XIV (Notices) to EPA for review and
comment a Quarterly Report for each Site/Additional Site for which a Notice of Intent has been
filed and a Notice of Termination either has not yet been filed or was filed during the Calendar
Quarter. If no Notice of Intent has been filed for any Additional Site, then no Quarterly Reports
for any Additional Site would need to be submitted.
a.
For the Site: Such Quarterly Reports shall be submitted electronically as
signed e-mails and shall include:
(1)
The status of Magnolia Affiliates' Construction Activity at the
Site, including completion of any milestones, problems
encountered or anticipated, together with implemented or proposed
28
solutions, status of permit applications, and any other relevant
matters;
(2)
A description of any non-compliance with the requirements ofthis
Consent Decree and an explanation of each violation's likely cause
and of the remedial steps taken, or to be taken, to prevent or
minimize such violation. Routine maintenance activities as
specified in the Applicable Permit are not non-compliance, and
descriptions thereof need not be included in the Site Quarterly
Reports.
b.
For each Additional Site: Such Quarterly Reports shall be submitted as
electronically signed .pdf files and shall include:
(1)
The Site Inspection Forms, in accordance with Paragraph 20
(Compliance Inspections) of this Consent Decree,for the
preceding Calendar Quarter;
(2)
The status of Magnolia Affiliates' Construction Activity at the
Additional Site, including completion of any milestones, problems
encountered or anticipated, together with implemented or proposed
solutions, status of permit applications, and any other relevant
matters;
(3)
A description of any non-compliance with the requirements ofthis
Consent Decree and an explanation of each violation's likely cause
and of the remedial steps taken, or to be taken, to prevent or
minimize such violation.
29
33.
If Magnolia Affiliates violate, or have reason to believe that they may violate, any
requirement ofthis Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall notify the United States of such
violation and its likely duration, in writing, within seven (7)Days of the Day that Magnolia
Affiliates first become aware ofthe violation, with an explanation ofthe violation's likely cause
and ofthe remedial steps taken, or to be taken, to prevent or minimize such violation. Ifthe
cause of a violation cannot be fully explained at the time the report is due. Magnolia Affiliates
shall so state in the report. Magnolia Affiliates shall investigate the cause ofthe violation and
shall then submit an amendment to the report, including a full explanation ofthe cause ofthe
violation, within thirty (30)Days ofthe Day that Magnolia Affiliates become aware ofthe cause
of the violation. Nothing in this Paragraph or the following Paragraph relieves Magnolia
Affiliates of their obligation to provide the notice required by Section IX (Force Majeure).
34.
Whenever any violation ofthis Consent Decree or of any applicable permits or
any other event affecting Magnolia Affiliates' performance under this Decree, may pose an
immediate threat to the public health or welfare or the environment. Magnolia Affiliates shall
notify EPA orally or by electronic transmission as soon as possible, but no later than twenty-four
(24) hours after Magnolia Affiliates first knew of the violation or event. This procedure is in
addition to the requirements set forth in the preceding Paragraph.
35.
All reports shall be submitted electronically to the persons designated in Section
XIV (Notices).
36.
Each report submitted by Magnolia Affiliates under this Section shall be signed
by an official of the submitting party and include the following certification:
1 certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were
prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed
to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information
submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system,
30
or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the
information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate,
and complete. I have no personal knowledge that the information submitted is
other than true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant
penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and
imprisonment for knowing violations.
This certification requirement does not apply to emergency or similar notifications where
compliance would be impractical.
37.
The reporting requirements ofthis Consent Decree do not relieve Magnolia
Affiliates of any reporting obligations required by the Act or implementing regulations, or by
any other federal, state, or local law, regulation, pennit, or other requirement.
38.
Any information provided pursuant to this Consent Decree may be used by the
United States in any proceeding to enforce the provisions of this Consent Decree and as
otherwise permitted by law.
VIII.
39.
STIPULATED PENALTIES
Magnolia Affiliates shall be liable for stipulated penalties to the United States for
violations ofthis Consent Decree as specified below, unless excused under Section IX (Force
Majeure). A violation includes failing to perform any obligation required by the terms of this
Decree, according to all applicable requirements ofthis Decree and within the specified time
schedules established by or approved under this Decree.
40.
Late Pavment of Civil Penaltv. If Defendants fail to pay the civil penalty required
to be paid under Section V (Civil Penalty) when due. Magnolia Affiliates shall pay a stipulated
penalty of$800 per Day for each Day that the payment is late.
41.
Late Purchase of Wetlands Credits. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to timely purchase
wetlands credits as required by Paragraph 23 of the Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall
pay a stipulated penalty of $800 per Day for each Day that the purchase is late.
31
42.
Compliance at the Site. The following stipulated penalties shall apply for the
following violations ofthis Consent Decree at the Site:
a.
Permits and SWPPPs. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to comply with
Paragraphs 16,22 or 29 at the Site, they shall pay a stipulated penalty as
follows:
Period of Noncompliance:
Penalty Per Violation Per Day:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
More than fifteen (15)days
b.
$250
$500
BMPs. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to implement all BMPs at the Site as
required by Subparagraph 18.a, or fail to report and correct/modify/install
missing, ineffective or breached BMPs at the Site as required by
Subparagraph 18.b, or otherwise fail to comply with Paragraph 18 at the
Site, they shall pay a stipulated penalty as follows:
Period of Noncompliance:
Penalty Per Violation Per Day:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
Sixteen (16)to thirty (30) days
$500
More than thirty(30) days
c.
$250
$800
Reporting. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to timely submit required Quarterly
Reports that conform to the requirements of Paragraphs 31, 32.a, 35 and
36, or fails to notify EPA in the event of a violation or anticipated
violation of the Consent Decree, in accordance with Paragraph 33, they
shall pay a stipulated penalty as follows
Period of Noncompliance:
32
Penalty Per Violation Per Day:
One(I)to fifteen (15) days
More than fifteen (15) days
43.
$250
$500
Compliance at Additional Sites. The following stipulated penalties shall apply for
the following violations ofthis Consent Decree at Additional Sites:
a.
Compliance with Applicable Permits. If the discharge of any pollutant
from an Additional Site to a water ofthe United States occurs prior to
obtaining coverage as required under an Applicable Permit or in violation
of an Applicable Permit, Magnolia Affiliates shall pay a stipulated penalty
of $1,000 per discharge.
b.
Designation of Storm Water Compliance Manager and Independent Third
Partv Verifier. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to designate a Storm Water
Compliance Manager for any Additional Site as required by Paragraph 19
(Designation of Storm Water Compliance Manager), or fail to retain an
Independent Third Party Verifier as required by Paragraph 21 (Third-Party
Oversight for Additional Sites), or otherwise fail to comply with any
portion of Paragraph 19 or Paragraph 21, they shall pay a stipulated
penalty as follows:
Period of Noncomnliance:
Penaltv Per Violation Per Dav:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
More than fifteen (15) days
c.
$250
$500
Permits and SWPPPs. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to obtain coverage under
the Applicable Permit for an Additional Site, as required by Paragraph 29,
or prepare or modify a SWPPP for an Additional Site, as required by
33
Paragraphs 16 and/or 17, or otherwise fail to comply with Paragraphs 16,
17,22, or 29 at an Additional Site, they shall pay a stipulated penalty as
follows:
Period of Noncomoliance:
Penalty Per Violation Per Dav:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
$250
More than fifteen (15)days
$500
BMPs.If Magnolia Affiliates fail to implement all BMPs at an Additional
Site as required by Subparagraph 18.a, or fail to report and
correct/modify/install missing, ineffective or breached BMPs at an
Additional Site as required by Subparagraph IS.b, or otherwise fail to
comply with Paragraph 18 at an Additional Site, they shall pay a stipulated
penalty as follows:
Period of Noncomoliance:
Penalty Per Violation Per Dav:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
$250
Sixteen (16)to thirty (30) days
$500
More than thirty(30)days
$800
Compliance Inspections. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to perform or, if
performed, fail to document a Site Inspection, as required by Paragraph
20, or otherwise fail to comply with any portion of Paragraph 20,they
shall pay a stipulated penalty as follows:
Period of Noncomoliance:
Penalty Per Violation Per Day:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
$250
More than fifteen (15)days
$500
34
f.
Reporting. If Magnolia Affiliates fail to timely submit required Quarterly
Reports that conform to the requirements of Paragraphs 32.b, 35 and 36,
or fails to notify EPA in the event of a violation or anticipated violation of
the Consent Decree, in accordance with Paragraph 33,they shall pay a
stipulated penalty as follows
Period of Noncompliance:
Penaltv Per Violation Per Dav:
One(1)to fifteen (15)days
More than fifteen (15)days
44.
$250
$500
Stipulated penalties under this Section shall begin to accrue on the Day after
performance is due or on the Day a violation occurs, whichever is applicable, and shall continue
to accrue until performance is satisfactorily completed or until the violation ceases. Stipulated
penalties shall accrue simultaneously for separate violations ofthis Consent Decree.
45.
Magnolia Affiliates shall pay any stipulated penalty within thirty (30)Days of
receiving the United States' written demand.
46.
The United States may, in the unreviewable exercise of its discretion, reduce or
waive stipulated penalties otherwise due it under this Consent Decree.
47.
Stipulated penalties shall continue to accrue as provided in Paragraph 44, during
any Dispute Resolution, but need not be paid until the following:
a.
If the dispute is resolved by agreement or by a decision of EPA that is not
appealed to the Court, Magnolia Affiliates shall pay accrued penalties
determined to be owing,together with interest, to the United States within
thirty (30) Days of the effective date ofthe agreement or the receipt of
EPA's decision or order.
35
b.
If the dispute is appealed to the Court and the United States prevails in
whole or in part, Magnolia Affiliates shall pay all accrued penalties
determined by the Court to be owing, together with interest, within ninety
(90) Days of receiving the Court's decision or order, except as provided in
Subparagraph 47.c, below.
c.
If any Party appeals the District Court's decision. Magnolia Affiliates
shall pay all accrued penalties determined to be owing, together with
interest, within fifteen (15) Days of receiving the final appellate court
decision.
48.
Magnolia Affiliates shall pay stipulated penalties owing to the United States in the
manner set forth and with the confirmation notices required by Paragraph 13, except that the
transmittal letter shall state that the payment is for stipulated penalties and shall state for which
violation(s) the penalties are being paid.
49.
If Magnolia Affiliates fail to pay stipulated penalties according to the terms of this
Consent Decree, Magnolia Affiliates shall be liable for interest on such penalties, as provided for
in 28 U.S.C. § 1961, accruing as of the date payment became due. Nothing in this Paragraph
shall be construed to limit the United States from seeking any remedy otherwise provided by law
for Magnolia Affiliates' failure to pay any stipulated penalties.
50.
The payment of penalties and interest, if any, shall not alter in any way Magnolia
Affiliates' obligation to complete the performance of the requirements ofthis Consent Decree.
51.
Non-Exclusivitv of Remedv. Stipulated penalties are not the United States'
exclusive remedy for violations ofthis Consent Decree. Subject to the provisions of Section XI1
(Effect of Settlement/Reservation of Rights), the United States expressly reserves the right to
36
seek any other relief it deems appropriate for Magnolia Affiliates' violation ofthis Decree or
applicable law, including but not limited to an action against any Magnolia Affiliate for statutory
penalties, additional injunctive relief, mitigation or offset measures, and/or contempt. However,
the amount of any statutory penalty assessed for a violation ofthis Consent Decree shall be
reduced by an amount equal to the amount of any stipulated penalty assessed and paid pursuant
to this Consent Decree.
IX.
52.
FORCE MAJEURE
"Force majeure," for purposes of this Consent Decree, is defined as any event
arising from causes beyond the control of Magnolia Affiliates, of any entity controlled by
Magnolia Affiliates, and of Magnolia Affiliates' contractors, that delays or prevents the
performance of any obligation under this Consent Decree despite Magnolia Affiliates' best
efforts to fulfill the obligation. The requirement that Magnolia Affiliates exercise "best efforts to
fulfill the obligation" includes using best efforts to anticipate any potential force majeure event
and best efforts to address the effects of any potential force majeure event(a)as it is occurring
and (b)following the potential force majeure, such that the delay and any adverse effects of the
delay are minimized."Force majeure" does not include Magnolia Affiliates' financial inability to
perform any obligation under this Consent Decree.
53.
If any event occurs or has occurred that may delay the performance of any
obligation under this Consent Decree, whether or not caused by a force majeure event. Magnolia
Affiliates shall provide notice orally or by electronic or facsimile transmission to EPA as set
forth in Section XIV (Notices), within seventy-two(72) hours of when Magnolia Affiliates first
knew that the event might cause a delay. Within seven (7)days thereafter. Magnolia Affiliates
shall provide in writing to EPA an explanation and description ofthe reasons for the delay; the
37
anticipated duration of the delay; all actions taken or to be taken to prevent or minimize the
delay; a schedule for implementation of any measures to be taken to prevent or mitigate the delay
or the effect ofthe delay; Magnolia Affiliates' rationale for attributing such delay to a force
majeure event if they intend to assert such a claim; and a statement as to whether, in the opinion
of Magnolia Affiliates, such event may cause or contribute to an endangerment to public health,
welfare or the environment. Magnolia Affiliates shall include with any notice all available
documentation supporting the claim that the delay was attributable to a force majeure. Failure to
comply with the above requirements shall preclude Magnolia Affiliates from asserting any claim
offorce majeure for that event for the period oftime of such failure to comply, and for any
additional delay caused by such failure. Magnolia Affiliates shall be deemed to know of any
circumstance of which Magnolia Affiliates, any entity controlled by Magnolia Affiliates, or
Magnolia Affiliates' contractors knew or should have known.
54.
If EPA agrees that the delay or anticipated delay is attributable to a force majeure
event, the time for performance of the obligations under this Consent Decree that are affected by
the force majeure event will be extended by EPA for such time as is necessary to complete those
obligations. An extension of the time for performance ofthe obligations affected by the force
majeure event shall not, of itself, extend the time for performance of any other obligation. EPA
will notify Magnolia Affiliates in writing of the length ofthe extension, if any, for performance
of the obligations affected by the force majeure event.
55.
If EPA does not agree that the delay or anticipated delay has been or will be
caused by a force majeure event, EPA will notify Magnolia Affiliates in writing of its decision.
56.
If Magnolia Affiliates elect to invoke the dispute resolution procedures set forth in
Section X (Dispute Resolution), they shall do so no later than fifteen (15)days after receipt of
38
EPA's notice. In any such proceeding. Magnolia Affiliates shall have the burden of
demonstrating by a preponderance ofthe evidence that the delay or anticipated delay has been or
will be caused by a force majeure event, that the duration of the delay or the extension sought
was or will be warranted under the circumstances, that best efforts were exercised to avoid and
mitigate the effects of the delay, and that Magnolia Affiliates complied with the requirements of
Paragraphs 52 and 53. If Magnolia Affiliates carry this burden, the delay at issue shall be deemed
not to be a violation by Magnolia Affiliates of the affected obligation of this Consent Decree
identified to EPA and the Court.
X.
57.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Unless otherwise expressly provided for in this Consent Decree, the dispute
resolution procedures of this Section shall be the exclusive mechanism to resolve disputes arising
under or with respect to this Consent Decree. Magnolia Affiliates' failure to seek resolution of a
dispute under this Section shall preclude Magnolia Affiliates from raising any such issue as a
defense to an action by the United States to enforce any obligation of Magnolia Affiliates arising
under this Decree.
58.
Informal Dispute Resolution. Any dispute subject to Dispute Resolution under
this Consent Decree shall first be the subject of informal negotiations. The dispute shall be
considered to have arisen when Magnolia Affiliates send the United States a written Notice of
Dispute. Such Notice of Dispute shall state clearly the matter in dispute. The period of informal
negotiations shall not exceed twenty(20)Days from the date the dispute arises, unless that
period is modified by written agreement. If the Parties cannot resolve a dispute by informal
negotiations, then the position advanced by the United States shall be considered binding unless.
39
within fifteen (15)Days after the conclusion of the informal negotiation period, Magnolia
Affiliates invoke formal dispute resolution procedures as set forth below.
59.
Formal Dispute Resolution. Magnolia Affiliates shall invoke fonnal dispute
resolution procedures, within the time period provided in the preceding Paragraph, by serving on
the United States a written Statement of Position regarding the matter in dispute. The Statement
of Position shall include, but need not be limited to, any factual data, analysis, or opinion
supporting Magnolia Affiliates' position and any supporting documentation relied upon by
Magnolia Affiliates.
60.
The United States shall serve its Statement of Position within forty-five(45)Days
of receipt of Magnolia Affiliates' Statement of Position. The United States' Statement of
Position shall include, but need not be limited to, any factual data, analysis, or opinion
supporting that position and any supporting documentation relied upon by the United States. The
United States' Statement of Position shall be binding on Magnolia Affiliates, unless Magnolia
Affiliates file a motion for judicial review ofthe dispute in accordance with the following
Paragraph.
61.
Magnolia Affiliates may seek judicial review of the dispute by filing with the
Court and serving on the United States, in accordance with Section XIV (Notices), a motion
requesting judicial resolution of the dispute. The motion must be filed within ten (10) Days of
receipt of the United States' Statement of Position pursuant to the preceding Paragraph. The
motion shall contain a written statement of Magnolia Affiliates' position on the matter in dispute,
including any supporting factual data, analysis, opinion, or documentation, and shall set forth the
relief requested and any schedule within which the dispute must be resolved for orderly
implementation of the Consent Decree.
40
62.
The United States shall respond to Magnolia Affiliates' motion within the time
period allowed by the Local Rules ofthis Court. Magnolia Affiliates may file a reply
memorandum,to the extent permitted by the Local Rules.
63.
Standard of Review
a.
Disputes Concerning Matters Accorded Record Review. Except as
otherwise provided in this Consent Decree, in any dispute brought under
Paragraph 59 pertaining to the adequacy or appropriateness of plans,
procedures to implement plans, schedules or any other items requiring
approval by EPA under this Consent Decree; the adequacy of the
performance of work undertaken pursuant to this Consent Decree; and all
other disputes that are accorded review on the administrative record under
applicable principles of administrative law. Magnolia Affiliates shall have
the burden of demonstrating, based on the administrative record, that the
position of the United States is arbitrary and capricious or otherwise not in
accordance with law.
b.
Other Disputes. Except as otherwise provided in this Consent Decree, in
any other dispute brought under Paragraph 59, Magnolia Affiliates shall
bear the burden of demonstrating that its position complies with this
Consent Decree.
64.
The invocation of dispute resolution procedures under this Section shall not, by
itself, extend, postpone, or affect in any way any obligation of Magnolia Affiliates under this
Consent Decree, unless and until final resolution of the dispute so provides. Stipulated penalties
with respect to the disputed matter shall continue to accrue from the first Day of noncompliance,
41
but payment shall be stayed pending resolution ofthe dispute as provided in Paragraph 47. If
Magnolia Affiliates do not prevail on the disputed issue, stipulated penalties shall be assessed
and paid as provided in Section VIII (Stipulated Penalties).
XI.
65.
INFORMATION COLLECTION AND RETENTION
Right of Entry. The United States and its representatives, including attorneys,
contractors, and consultants, shall have the right of entry into any site or facility covered by this
Consent Decree, at all reasonable times, upon presentation of credentials, to:
a.
monitor the progress of activities required under this Consent Decree;
b.
verify any data or information submitted to the United States in
accordance with the terms of this Consent Decree;
c.
obtain samples and, upon request, splits of any samples taken by Magnolia
Affiliates or their representatives, contractors, or consultants;
d.
e.
66.
obtain documentary evidence, including photographs and similar data; and
assess Magnolia Affiliates' compliance with this Consent Decree.
Upon request. Magnolia Affiliates shall provide EPA or its authorized
representatives splits of any samples taken by Magnolia Affiliates. Upon request, EPA shall
provide Defendants splits of any samples taken by EPA.
67.
Until five(5) years after the termination ofthis Consent Decree, Magnolia
Affiliates shall retain, and shall instruct their contractors and agents to preserve, all non-identical
copies of all documents, records, or other information (including documents, records, or other
information in electronic form)in their or their contractors' or agents' possession or control, or
that come into their or their contractors' or agents' possession or control, and that relate in any
manner to Magnolia Affiliates' performance oftheir obligations under this Consent Decree. This
42
information-retention requirement shall apply regardless of any contrary corporate or
institutional policies or procedures. At any time during this information-retention period, upon
request by the United States, Magnolia Affiliates shall provide copies of any documents, records,
or other information required to be maintained under this Paragraph.
68.
At the conclusion ofthe information-retention period provided in the preceding
Paragraph, Magnolia Affiliates shall notify the United States at least ninety (90) Days prior to the
destruction of any documents, records, or other information subject to the requirements ofthe
preceding Paragraph and, upon request by the United States, Magnolia Affiliates shall deliver
any such documents, records, or other information to EPA. Magnolia Affiliates may assert that
certain documents, records, or other information is privileged under the attomey-client privilege
or any other privilege recognized by federal law. If Magnolia Affiliates assert such a privilege,
they shall provide the following:(a)the title ofthe document, record, or information;(b)the date
of the document, record, or information;(c)the name and title ofeach author of the document,
record, or information;(d)the name and title of each addressee and recipient;(e)a description of
the subject of the document, record, or information; and (f) the privilege asserted by Magnolia
Affiliates. However, no documents, records, or other information created or generated pursuant
to the requirements of this Consent Decree shall be withheld on grounds of privilege.
69.
Magnolia Affiliates may also assert that information required to be provided
under this Section is protected as Confidential Business Information ("CBI") under 40 C.F.R.
Part 2. As to any information that Magnolia Affiliates seek to protect as CBI, Magnolia Affiliates
shall follow the procedures set forth in 40 C.F.R. Part 2.
70.
This Consent Decree in no way limits or affects any right of entry and inspection,
or any right to obtain information, held by the United States pursuant to applicable federal laws.
43
regulations, or permits, nor does it limit or affect any duty or obligation of Magnolia Affiliates to
maintain documents, records, or other information imposed by applicable federal or State laws,
regulations, or permits.
XII.
71.
EFFECT OF SETTLEMENT/RESERVATION OF RIGHTS
This Consent Decree resolves all civil claims of the United States for the
violations alleged in the Complaint filed in this action through the date of lodging, including all
alleged violations of Applicable Permits for the Site issued by the State pursuant to Section 402
ofthe CWA,33 U.S.C. § 1342, and all alleged violations of CWA Section 301, 33 U.S.C. §
1311, for the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters ofthe United States without
permits issued pursuant to CWA Section 404,33 U.S.C. § 1344, at the Site.
72.
The United States reserves all legal and equitable remedies available to enforce
the provisions ofthis Consent Decree. This Consent Decree shall not be construed to limit the
rights ofthe United States to obtain penalties or injunctive relief under the Act or implementing
regulations, or under other federal laws, regulations, or permit conditions. The United States
further reserves all legal and equitable remedies to address any imminent and substantial
endangerment to the public health or welfare or the environment arising at, or posed by, any of
Magnolia Affiliates' Site/Additional Sites, whether related to the violations addressed in this
Consent Decree or otherwise.
73.
In any subsequent administrative or judicial proceeding initiated by the United
States for injunctive relief, civil penalties, other appropriate relief relating to the Site and/or
Additional Sites, Magnolia Affiliates shall not assert, and may not maintain, any defense or
claim based upon the principles of waiver, res judicata, collateral estoppel, issue preclusion,
claim preclusion, claim-splitting, or other defenses based upon any contention that the claims
44
raised by the United States in the subsequent proceeding were or should have been brought in the
instant case, except with respect to claims that have been specifically resolved pursuant to
Paragraph 71.
74.
This Consent Decree is not a permit, or a modification of any permit, under any
federal, state, or local laws or regulations. Magnolia Affiliates are responsible for achieving and
maintaining complete compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations,
and permits; and Magnolia Affiliates' compliance with this Consent Decree shall be no defense
to any action commenced pursuant to any such laws, regulations, or permits, except as set forth
herein. The United States does not, by its consent to the entry ofthis Consent Decree, warrant or
aver in any manner that Magnolia Affiliates' compliance with any aspect ofthis Consent Decree
will result in compliance with provisions ofthe CWA,33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq., or with any
other provisions offederal, state, or local laws, regulations, or permits.
75.
This Consent Decree does not limit or affect the rights of Magnolia Affiliates or
of the United States against any third parties, not party to this Consent Decree, nor does it limit
the rights ofthird parties, not party to this Consent Decree, against Magnolia Affiliates, except as
otherwise provided by law.
76.
This Consent Decree shall not be construed to create rights in, or grant any cause
of action to, any third party not party to this Consent Decree.
XIll.
77.
COSTS
The Parties shall bear their own costs of this action, including attorneys' fees,
except that the United States shall be entitled to collect the costs (including attorneys' fees)
incurred in any action necessary to collect any portion of the civil penalty or any stipulated
penalties due but not paid by Magnolia Affiliates.
45
XIV.
78.
NOTICES
Unless otherwise specified in this Decree, whenever notifications, submissions, or
communications are required by this Consent Decree,they shall be made in writing and
addressed as follows:
As to the United States by email:
EESCaseManagement.ENRD@usdoj.gov
Re: DJ# 90-5-1-1-11410
As to the United States by mail:
EES Case Management Unit
Environment and Natural Resources Division
U.S. Department of Justice
P.O. Box 7611
Washington, D.C. 20044-7611
Re: DJ #90-5-1-1-11410
As to EPA:
Michele Wetherington
Associate Regional Counsel
Office of Regional Counsel
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4
61 Forsyth Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303
Telephone:(404)562-9613
E-mail: Wetherington.MicheIe@epa.gov
Ahmad Dromgoole
Stormwater & Residuals Enforcement Section
NPDES Permitting & Enforcement Branch
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4
Telephone:(404)562-9212
E-mail: Dromgoole.Ahmad@epa.gov
As to Magnolia Affiliates:
Aaron Sullivan
P.O. Box 1550
Evans, GA 30809
Telephone:(706)830-1888
E-mail: aaronwsullivan@att.net
79.
Any Party may, by written notice to the other Parties, change its designated notice
recipient or notice address provided above.
46
80.
Notices submitted pursuant to this Section shall be deemed submitted upon
mailing, unless otherwise provided in this Consent Decree or by mutual agreement ofthe Parties
in writing.
XV.
81.
EFFECTIVE DATE
The Effective Date ofthis Consent Decree shall be the date upon which this
Consent Decree is entered by the Court or a motion to enter the Consent Decree is granted,
whichever occurs first, as recorded on the Court's docket.
XVI.
82.
RETENTION OF JURISDICTION
The Court shall retain jurisdiction over this case until termination ofthis Consent
Decree, for the purpose of resolving disputes arising under this Decree or entering orders
modifying this Decree, pursuant to Sections X and XVII, or effectuating or enforcing compliance
with the terms of this Decree.
XVII. MODIFICATION
83.
The terms of this Consent Decree, including any attached appendices, may be
modified only by a subsequent written agreement signed by all the Parties. Where the
modification constitutes a material change to this Decree, it shall be effective only upon approval
by the Court.
84.
Any disputes concerning modification ofthis Decree shall be resolved pursuant to
Section X (Dispute Resolution), provided, however, that, instead ofthe burden of proof provided
by Paragraph 63,the Party seeking the modification bears the burden of demonstrating that it is
entitled to the requested modification in accordance with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 60(b).
47
XVIII. TERMINATION
85.
After Magnolia Affiliates have completed the requirements of Section VI
(Compliance Requirements), have thereafter maintained continuous satisfactory compliance with
this Consent Decree and Magnolia Affiliates' Applicable Permits for a period offive (5) years,
and have paid the civil penalty and any accrued stipulated penalties as required by this Consent
Decree, Magnolia Affiliates may serve upon the United States a Request for Termination, stating
that Magnolia Affiliates have satisfied those requirements, together with all necessary supporting
documentation.
86.
Following receipt by the United States of Magnolia Affiliates' Request for
Termination, the Parties shall confer informally concerning the Request and any disagreement
that the Parties may have as to whether Magnolia Affiliates have satisfactorily complied with the
requirements for termination ofthis Consent Decree. If the United States agrees that the Decree
may be terminated, the Parties shall submit, for the Court's approval, a joint stipulation
terminating the Decree.
87.
If the United States does not agree that the Decree may be terminated. Magnolia
Affiliates may invoke Dispute Resolution under Section X. However, Magnolia Affiliates shall
not seek Dispute Resolution of any dispute regarding termination until sixty(60) Days after
service of its Request for Termination.
XIX.
88.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
This Consent Decree shall be lodged with the Court for a period of not less than
thirty (30) Days for public notice and comment in accordance with 28 C.F.R. § 50.7. The United
States reserves the right to withdraw or withhold its consent if the comments regarding the
Consent Decree disclose facts or considerations indicating that the Consent Decree is
48
inappropriate, improper, or inadequate. Magnolia Affiliates consent to entry of this Consent
Decree without further notice and agree not to withdraw from or oppose entry ofthis Consent
Decree by the Court or to challenge any provision of the Decree, unless the United States has
notified Magnolia Affiliates in writing that it no longer supports entry of the Decree.
XX.
89.
SIGNATORIES/SERVICE
Each undersigned representative of each Magnolia Affiliates and the Assistant
Attorney General for the Environment and Natural Resources Division ofthe Department of
Justice certifies that he or she is fully authorized to enter into the terms and conditions of this
Consent Decree and to execute and legally bind the Party he or she represents to this document.
90.
This Consent Decree may be signed in counterparts, and its validity shall not be
challenged on that basis. Magnolia Affiliates agree to accept service of process by mail with
respect to all matters arising under or relating to this Consent Decree and to waive the formal
service requirements set forth in Rules 4 and 5 ofthe Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and any
applicable Local Rules ofthis Court including, but not limited to, service of a summons.
Magnolia Affiliates need not file an answer to the complaint in this action unless or until the
Court expressly declines to enter this Consent Decree.
XXI. INTEGRATION
91.
This Consent Decree constitutes the final, complete, and exclusive agreement and
understanding among the Parties with respect to the settlement embodied in the Decree and
supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, whether oral or written, concerning the
settlement embodied herein. Other than deliverables that are subsequently submitted and
approved pursuant to this Decree, the Parties acknowledge that there are no representations.
49
agreements, or understandings relating to the settlement other than those expressly contained in
this Consent Decree.
XXII. FINAL JUDGMENT
92.
Upon approval and entry ofthis Consent Decree by the Court, this Consent
Decree shall constitute a final judgment of the Court as to the United States and Magnolia
Affiliates pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 54 and 58.
XXIIl. APPENDICES
93.
The following Appendices are attached to and part ofthis Consent Decree:
"Appendix A" is the Site Plat Maps;
"Appendix B" is the Site Inspection Form.
Dated and entered this /^^y of^^/y^^Wec,2018
ISTRICT JUDGE
50
WE HEREBY CONSENT to the entry ofthis Consent Decree in United States v. Magnolia Valley
Plantation, et at, subject to the public notice and comment provisions of28 C.F.R.§ 50.7:
FOR PLAINTIFF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA:
Date
"-1ELLEN M. MAHAN
Deputy Section Chief
Environmental Enforcement Section
Environment and Natural Resources Division
U.S. Dqyartment of Justice
IST
RACHAEL AMY KAMONS
Trial Attorney
Environment^ Enforcement Section
Environment and Natural Resources Division
U.S. Department ofJustice
P.O. Box 7611
Ben Franklin Station
Washington,DC 20044-7611
Telephone:(202)514-5260
Facsimile:(202)616-2427
E-mail: Rachael.Kamons@usdoj.gov
Date
PAULT:fflJNC
Trial Attorney
Environmental Defense Section
Environment and Natural Resources Division
U.S. Department of Justice
P.O.Box 7611
Ben Franklin Station
Washington,DC 20044-7611
Telephone:(202)514-1542
Facsimile:(202)514-8865
E-mail: paul.cirino@usdoj.gov
51
WE HEREBY CONSENT to the entry ofthis Consent Decree in United States v. Magnolia Valley
Plantation, et a!., subject to the public notice and comment provisions of28 C.F.R. § 50.7:
FOR PLAINTIFF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (Conrinued):
BOBBY L. CHRISTINE
UNITED STATES ATTORNEY
Date
JO^AJHAN A.PORTER
Assistant United States Attorney
Georgia Bar No. 725457
U.S. Attorney's Office
Post Office Box 8970
Savannah, Georgia 31412
Telephone:(912)652-4422
Email: Jonathan.Porter@usdoj.gov
52
WE HEREBY CONSENT to the entry ofthis Consent Decree in United States v. Magnolia Valley
Plantation, et al, subject to the public notice and comment provisions of28 C.F.R. § 50.7:
FOR PLAINTIFF UNI'I ED STATES OF AMERICA (Continued):
Date
SUZANNE RUBINI
Acting Regional Counsel
Office of Regional Counsel
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 4
61 Forsylh Street, S.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Telephone:(404)562-9535
Of Counsel:
MICHELE WETHERINGTON
Associate Regional Counsel
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 4
61 Forsyth Street, S.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Telephone:(404)562-9613
E-mail: wetherington.micheIe@epa.gov
53
^HEREBY CONSENT to the enl^ ofthis Consent Decree in UniletlStates v. Magnolia Valley
Plantation, et al, subject to the public notice and comment provisions of28 C.F.R.§ 50.7:
FOR PLAINTIFF UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (Continued):
^I
If
Date
IS, Director
Water Hnfor^^ent Division
Office ofCivil Enforcement
Office ofEnforcement and Compliance Assurance
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C.
OfCounsel:
ANDREW CHERRY
Attorney-Advisor
Water Enforcement Division
Office of Civil Enforcement
U.S. Environmenta)Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue,NW
Washington, D.C. 20460
Telephone:(202)564-2589
E-mail: Cherry.Andrcw@epa.gov
KRISTIN BUTERBAUGII
Attorney-Advisor
Water Enforcement Division
Office of Civil Enforcement
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20460
Telephone:(202)564-4479
E-maiI: Buterbaugh.Kristin@cpa.gov
54
WE HEREBY CONSENT to the entry ofthis Consent Decree in United States v. Magnolia Valley
Plantation, et al, subject to the public notice and comment provisions of28 C.F.R. § 50.7:
FOR DEFENDANTS MAGNOLIA VALLEY PLANTATION, LLC, MAGNOLIA VALLEY,
LLC, MAGNOLIA HILLS,LLC:
Aaron W.suiiivan;
P.O. Box 1550
Evans, GA 30809
Telephone:(706)830-1888
E-mail: aaronwsullivan@att.net
WE HEREBY CONSENT to the entry ofthis Consent Decree in United States v. Magnolia Valley
Plantation, et al., subject to the public notice and comment provisions of28 C.F.R. § 50.7:
FOR AARON W.SULLIVAN,JR. AND MAGNOLIA AFFILIATES
Dite
'
Aaron W.Sullivan, Jr
P.O. Box 1550
Evans, GA 30809
Telephone:(706)830-1888
E-mail: aaronwsullivan@att.net
55
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