Press Release  MassDEP Penalizes Property Owner for Environmental Cleanup Violations in Holyoke

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) issued a $14,000 fine to Jackson St Productions, LLC, for violating state oil and hazardous materials cleanup regulations at its property located at 60-66 Jackson Street in Holyoke.

In 2022, previous owners of the property notified MassDEP of oil and hazardous materials – known as petroleum hydrocarbons and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) – released into the soil, and chlorinated solvents (CVOCs) released into the groundwater. The former owners conducted a limited soil and groundwater assessment and later sold the property and transferred ownership to Jackson St Productions.

Under state regulations requiring cleanup of contaminated properties, Jackson St Productions (as the current owner) is legally obligated to continue response actions at the site even if the contamination was discovered and reported by previous owners. MassDEP has repeatedly notified Jackson St Productions of its legal responsibilities for cleanup, but the company has failed to respond, conduct the required response actions, and meet required deadlines.

"Jackson St Productions ignored MassDEP’s repeated attempts seeking compliance with environmental regulations," said Michael Gorski, Director of MassDEP’s Western Regional Office in Springfield. "Adhering to these cleanup requirements ensures safe working conditions, prevents further pollution, and protects our local ecosystems. Failure to bring this contaminated site into compliance is a public health hazard and will result in further enforcement actions."

The $14,000 penalty was issued with a Unilateral Administrative Order, which sets a new schedule for Jackson St Productions to achieve compliance with the regulatory requirements for the property.   

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