Facts

Compton Steel Inc. operates a manufacturing facility in Compton. At the facility, different industrial activities are performed that involve not only paint, but also metal and other steel parts. On May 2, 2022, Los Angeles Waterkeeper, a non-profit public benefit corporation, filed suit against Compton Steel for violations of the Clean Water Act.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff contended that defendant allowed the discharge of pollutants associated with its industrial waste activities to pollute storm drains and surface water including the Compton Creek and Los Angeles River. Plaintiff further contended that defendant did not appropriately implement stormwater management practices as required by law and the facility's permit.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: Defendant contended that it had been affected by the COVID pandemic and other factors, impacting its financial ability to adhere with strict compliance but that it responded to the issues raised by plaintiff and thereafter spent considerable resources, including time, money and efforts to correct site conditions.

Result

Case settled with defendant agreeing to specific consent decree terms regarding managing pollutants in its stormwater plus $10,000 to a foundation for environmental causes and $32,000 for costs.