Easton Trailer Park Fined $23K for Environmental Violations

Easton MHC, which operates a mobile home park on Turnpike Street, has been fined $23,000 for "repeated" wastewater violations.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection on Tuesday announced it penalized the facility, which MassDEP said committed similar violations in 2010 and failed to take corrective action.

"This mobile home community owner has certain responsibilities, including the proper maintenance of the wastewater treatment system to protect the public health and safety of residents," said Philip Weinberg, MassDEP regional director, in a statement. "MassDEP's mission is to protect both public health and the environment, as well as ensure that an entity like Easton MHC does not ignore its responsibilities."

Easton MHC had a groundwater discharge permit for 36,000 gallons per day in 2010, MassDEP said. The facility had discharges above that limit, as well as breakouts in the leaching field, according to MassDEP. 

"Easton MHC proposed a phased solution in November 2012, but did not complete all the agreed upon improvements with effluent outbreaks continuing to occur," MassDEP said in a statement.

Easton MHC agreed to the following conditions: 

• Making surface structures and manholes water-tight where necessary
• Completing the remainder of the repair plan within one year after the local conservation commission approves Easton MHC's submitted plans for the repair
• Submit monthly status reports

"Easton MHC will pay $11,500 of (Tuesday's) assessed penalty, and MassDEP has agreed to suspend the remaining $11,500 provided Easton MHC meets its deadlines and maintains compliance with the regulations over the next three years," MassDEP said.