Governor Martz Announces Use of the Silver
Bullet for Superfund Designation in Libby

For Immediate Release
December 20, 2001
Contact: Mary Schwarz
406-444-5523

(Libby) -Governor Judy Martz today announced to the residents of Libby that she will utilize the Silver Bullet option to include Libby as a Superfund site.

"In reaching this decision, I have come to believe that the known risks of today outweigh the unknown risks of tomorrow," said Governor Martz. "I am committed to the community of Libby. We have come a long way together, and we have a long way yet to go. But, together, we will accomplish what is best for the people of Libby."

Governor Martz stated that her decision to utilize the state pick, more commonly known as the 'Silver Bullet' was influenced by her concerns regarding the potential for delay in the listing process. Use of this option will expedite the process for a Superfund listing.

In the past, Governor Martz has expressed concerns about using the 'Silver Bullet' because it is a one-time only option afforded to each state under the Superfund law. Because of the finality of that option, she has taken a very deliberate and careful approach in her decision-making process.

"I wanted firm commitments from the EPA with regard to the cleanup in Libby," said Governor Martz. "I have taken a measured approach in order to gain the information needed to make the best decision for Libby."

Director of Montana's Department of Environmental Quality, Jan Sensibaugh, agreed with this approach.

"Montana gained greatly by Governor Martz's approach to this process," Sensibaugh said. "The EPA stepped forward on these issues in an effort to ensure that Governor Martz would agree to a Superfund designation. With those concerns addressed, the best approach is to proceed with use of the 'Silver Bullet'."

The state will finalize documentation needed for this designation by early January.

Full speech by Governor Martz

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