The following article has been submitted by 6th District Delegate Bob Long
Thank you to everyone who attended my town hall on Sept. 10.
We had a great discussion regarding the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant (BRWWTP) and the steps I am taking to demand accountability for the ongoing conditions at the facility.
I have heard from many residents who are tired from dealing with persistent odors coming from the plant. While some have said this problem has been going on for years and that we should get used to it, I completely disagree.
Times change and technology advances. Solutions exist right now to reduce the impact of these odors on our community.
For instance, the plant uses Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) sensors to monitor the primary chemical for producing these odors. However, the state recently discovered that some of these critical sensors are malfunctioning.
After the substantial amount of public funds invested into this plant, operating with broken equipment is unacceptable. Additionally, sludge stored in open lagoons remains another major source of odors. While a small portion of sludge has finally been removed, there is still a long way to go.
Many of you have asked: Why isn’t the government taking care of our air quality?
Right now, enforcement is strictly focused on meeting the minimum requirements of the existing consent decree, leaving a major regulatory gap for odor control. That is why I am taking direct action:
Pre filing State Legislation: I am pre filing legislation for the upcoming session to mandate strict air quality standards around the plant and hold BRWWTP management directly responsible for controlling emissions and cleaning our air.
Property Tax Appeals: I strongly encourage affected property owners to appeal their property taxes. Securing a tax reduction reflects the impacted value of your home and sends an undeniable financial message to the local government that these air conditions are unacceptable.
Federal Engagement: I am continuing to discuss our community’s concerns directly with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to demand broader regulatory oversight.
I want to extend a special thank you to the residents who spoke with the press to bring public attention to this issue. We cannot stay silent.
Please reach out to my office if you want more information on appealing your property taxes. I can be reached at bob.long@house.maryland.gov or by phone at 410-841-3458.
I will also keep you updated as this legislation develops.
Thank you for standing with me to ensure our community gets the clean air and accountability it deserves.