U.S. lawsuit accuses Gulfstream of discharging pollutants into canal
U.S. lawsuit accuses Gulfstream of discharging pollutants into canal.
The horse racing track could face fines of $37,500 a day per violation – or more than $50 million — for violating the federal Clean Water Act, said the lawsuit filed Wednesday by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.
Gulfstream Park spokesman David Joseph referred questions to the track’s attorney, Michael Fucheck.
He was out of town and could not be reached for comment.
According to the lawsuit, officials with the Environmental Protection Agency notified Gulfstream on Oct. 23, 2014 that horse wash water being discharged to a 24-acre drainage pond, and ultimately the nearby canal, was not authorized.
Gulfstream, which houses up to 1,100 horses year-round, was issued a notice of civil violation on Feb. 26, 2015.
“It does concern me,” City Commissioner Anthony Sanders said.
“It would concern anyone when you hear water pollution.” Hallandale Beach spokesman Peter Dobens was quick to point out that any pollutants that made their way into the drainage canal near the track posed no threat to the city’s drinking water.
When asked whether anyone swam or fished in the canal, he gave this answer: “I have no idea, but I would certainly hope not.” City Manager Roger Carlton also weighed in.
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