Lacey Concerns On Oyster Creek: Cost, Safety, Public's Role

LACEY, NJ — Residents' concerns about the Oyster Creek decommissioning process include safety, cost, and citizens' involvement, according to Congressman Andy Kim. Kim sent a letter July 11 to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission with questions on these issues.

Several Lacey residents have told Kim that the NRC hasn't been responsive to local concerns about decommissioning the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station, the congressman said.

"Particularly, it has been brought to my attention that several Lacey residents contacted the NRC in an attempt to gain answers to several questions regarding funding of the decommissioning process at Oyster Creek," Kim said in the letter. "As they have not heard back on these questions, I write to advocate on their behalf."

Kim wrote the following questions verbatim to NRC Chairwoman Kristine L. Svinicki:

1. In the event that the cost of the Oyster Creek decommissioning is less than the amount currently sitting in the decommissioning trust fund, would those leftover funds be returned to the taxpayer or would they be left with Holtec International?
2. Similarly, in the event that the cost of the Oyster Creek decommissioning runs over the amount in the decommissioning trust fund, would taxpayers be liable for any additional costs stemming from this process?
3. Was there any kind of environmental impact study done at Oyster Creek prior to the license transfer or closure of the plant? If not, does the NRC or Holtec plan to conduct an environmental impact study?
4. Over the course of the life of the Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) at Oyster Creek, will Holtec be responsible for the long-term safety and repair of casks? What are the best practices that will define Holtec's responsibilities in that regard?
5. What is the NRC's process for inspections of the quality and safety of the casks at Oyster Creek?
6. What is the process for ensuring that the final audit of Holtec's use of taxpayer money in the decommissioning process is accurate?
7. What is the timeline for the establishment of a citizens advisory panel for Oyster Creek's decommissioning?
8. What kind of written assurances can the people of Lacey get from the NRC and Holtec in regards to financial and inspection commitments?

Kim requested a written response from the NRC by Aug. 9.

NRC Spokesperson Neil Sheehan said the commission has received Kim's letter and will answer in the near future.

Oyster Creek permanently ceased operations Sept. 17 after operating since Dec. 23, 1969.

Related articles:

• April 12: Andy Kim: NRC Should Listen To Lacey's Concerns On Nuclear Plant
• June 3: Lacey's Oyster Creek Station To Sound Final Sirens
• June 26: Oyster Creek License Transfer Approved Amid Questions Of Process

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