"Earlier today I reviewed findings of a sampling report issued by the Edison Wetlands Association, conducted by Chapin Engineering and I am very disturbed by the reports findings. The report identified numerous areas in which dangerously high levels of contaminants exist throughout Troutman's Creek, down stream from the New Jersey Natural Gas former coal gasification plant.

"I am dismayed to learn that the company has not cleaned up contamination of the creek and I expect that New Jersey Natural Gas will address the contamination problems unveiled by the Chapin Engineering report immediately. In the majority of sampling findings for polyaromatic hydrocarbons, the sampling data reported by Chapin Engineering shows levels higher than NJDEP guideline levels. I will request that the NJDEP take these findings seriously and use them as a basis to conduct a full investigation as to the extent of contamination and its linkage to the former coal gasification plant. I encourage NJDEP to conduct it's own sampling of the creek, determine the originating source, the extent of contamination in this area and request that they require the company to complete remedial activities.

"We need to hold polluters accountable for their actions and New Jersey Natural Gas is no exception. The company has a responsibility to clean up contamination caused by its operations. We can't allow the pollution of Troutman's Creek to continue impacting the well-being of the individuals who live here. I know many of the residents in this area, and I know that many have little means to move beyond these contaminated areas. In fact many use the creek as a source of recreation, sustenance and even livelihood.

"Please know that I will work diligently to hold those responsible for this contamination accountable and expect that remedial activities to address these finding will begin immediately."