Citgo Refining to pay EPA fine over Texas plant violations

The Environmental Protection Agency said on Friday that it has reached an agreement with Citgo Refining and Chemicals Company that will both penalize the company and benefit the community after violations were discovered at Citgo's facility in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Based on a tip from the Chemical Safety Board, the EPA conducted an impromptu inspection in June 2012 and found violations in equipment, controls, operating and auditing procedures, and initial and ongoing training. The agreement, which was reached using the EPA’s alternative dispute-resolution process, requires Citgo to correct each violation and pay a fine of $266,369.

Additionally, Citgo will fund a $117,000 supplemental environmental project to outfit the Corpus Christi Fire Department with equipment that will help it detect and identify chemical leaks, a project that is especially fitting for the local community, which has many chemical and industrial facilities.

“Keeping communities and workers safe is the highest priority for EPA’s enforcement program,” EPA Regional Administrator Ron Curry said. “Companies have to be held accountable when they violate these important regulations.”