Improve input to permitting

[Charlie Atherton <charlie@structurex.net>]

In the permitting process, there should be Permitting Milestones in the process that the public is aware of so the public knows exactly where the public is in the process.  These Milestones should be well thought out.  The public must be well educated in exactly what the purpose is of each milestone and how the public can participate in each milestone as the permit moves through the process. 


Permitting Milestones: 
(so the public knows where their "place" is, and so they don't lose their place).

* The permitting authority receives and reviews the permit application (pre-application activities are included in this milestone).

* A public notice (with the information listed in the previous message inhttp://www.info-ren.org/cgi-bin/network-democracy/epa-pip/show_mesg?seq=00887) to the public.

* There should be informational public meetings to explain the application, impacts, etc., and have copies of the complete application at the meeting.
The entire public participation process must be explained, including the appeals process.

* A draft permit or notice of intent to deny the permit is issued by the permitting authority.

* Another public notice to the public is in order prior to the official public hearing.

* The permitting agency should meet with the citizens to discuss the permit.

* There is a need at this point for technical assistance to citizens.

* There should be a public hearing.

* A public comment period of at least 30 days is established to allow the public to comment on the draft permit. 

* There should be a response to comments to the public.

* The permitting agency should meet with citizens to discuss the comments.

* The permitting agency issues a final permit decision.

* There should be a public notice of the decision, and an explanation of the appeals process.

* There should be an appeals process if necessary.

* There is a need at this point for legal assistance to citizens.

Charlie Atherton