In a decision that has raised eyebrows across Saint Paul's Eastside community, the Ramsey County District Court allowed Northern Iron to step up its production, turning a blind eye to the previous constraints put in place by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). This court order has sparked a wave of concern among local legislators, as reported by the Minnesota Senate DFL.
While the MPCA had earlier set limits to align with the national ambient air quality standards, the court's new ruling directs Northern Iron to police its emissions—and only scale back if they exceed the accepted levels. Representing the Eastside's apprehensions, Saint Paul legislators released a statement stressing the court’s "unprecedented decision deeply disappoints us," as stated by the Minnesota Senate DFL. They fear the increased imperilment to air quality, a burden shouldered disproportionately by communities of color and children.
Despite the looming worry, the court has mandated several stipulations on Northern Iron, which include the prompt installation of new emissions control equipment, and the revision of permit applications by September 13, to demonstrate compliance with state and national standards. These requirements, albeit seemingly rigorous, do little to allay the concerns of legislators who are simultaneously requesting the MPCA to appeal against the court's decision.
As Northern Iron gears up for increased production, the MPCA stands as the sentinel, tasked with continuous monitoring of lead and particulate matter emissions, according to their evaluation of the court order and forthcoming plans. If emissions do end up breaching the limits, the community and their elected delegates trust the MPCA will swiftly hold the iron company to account. As detailed by the Minnesota Senate DFL, the ensuing court hearing pegged for August 22, is awaited to discuss the potential reinstatement of MPCA’s original administrative order.
