PJ Keating Updates

Statement from Fire Chief Kevin A. Gallagher - August 13, 2020

“The Town of Acushnet, in a cooperative effort involving the Board of Selectmen, Board of Health, Conservation Commission and Fire Chief, has taken steps to address immediate public health, safety and environmental concerns stemming from operations at the PJ Keating quarry located on South Main Street.

“Following several weeks of intense document review, site visits, drone fly overs and meetings, a Cease and Desist Order was issued to PJ Keating by the Acushnet Board of Health on August 10, 2020.  The order detailed twenty-three (23) serious observations which were found to be in direct violation of federal, state and local permits, regulations and standards.  The order lists twenty (20) actions that need to be initiated in order to achieve compliance.  A copy of that order is attached.

“In addition, yesterday the Acushnet Board of Selectmen issued a Cease and Desist Order relative to similar violations of the Soil Removal Permit issued by the Board of Selectmen to PJ Keating. 

“Today, the Acushnet Conservation Commission issued further enforcement actions regarding violations of the Wetlands Protection Act at the South Main Street facility.

“Finally, acting under the authority granted to me by the Massachusetts State Fire Code, I placed a condition on the permit to blast at PJ Keating requiring that no blasting occur until the concerns listed in the Town’s Cease and Desist order are addressed.

“Despite these orders, PJ Keating continues to operate its South Main Street facility. 

“These actions were not taken lightly.  They impact a longstanding Acushnet business with deep ties to the community.  It is our collective belief that having longstanding ties does not result in a removal from responsibility.  PJ Keating has a right to operate within the restrictions placed on them by federal, state and local regulations.  The regulations are put in place to protect the health, safety and environment of our residents.  The Town of Acushnet expects them to play by the rules, plain and simple.

“It is our hope that these orders can be lifted as quickly as possible”. 

NOTE:  The Soil Board met on Thursday, August 13, 2020.  The meeting can be viewed on the Acushnet Cable YouTube Channel at the following link - https://youtu.be/D6sLuBhc2WI.