Pollution Allegations In Lake Elsinore Prompt Public Hearing

for contaminating local waterways, and now state officials warn that amount could go up due to more allegations.

The California Regional Water Quality Control Board has called a Feb. 10 public hearing in the City of Loma Linda to address complaints that Pacific Clay Products has not resolved numerous violations, including discharging sediment-laden runoff into U.S. waterways.

According to a Dec. 23 letter sent to Pacific Clay Products by the Board (see attached letter), complaints have been filed that warrant the hearing.

The letter states that the hearing could have been avoided had Pacific Clay followed the terms of a Sept. 23 agreement. In that agreement, the Board issued an “Administrative Civil Liability Complaint” against Pacific Clay alleging it violated state law by discharging the waste, and both the Board and Pacific Clay agreed the company would be hit with a $40,000 fine. Additionally, under the agreement, Pacific Clay waived its right to a hearing.

But the matter wasn't over.  

, and complaints were received. Based on the public comments, the Board’s prosecution team called for a public hearing, according to the Dec. 23 letter.

The purpose of the hearing, the letter states, is to consider “evidence and testimony” regarding the issue. At the hearing, the Board will consider its options under the law, including imposing higher fines on Pacific Clay.

The Feb. 10 hearing is set for 9 a.m. at Loma Linda City Council Chambers located at 25541 Barton Road.