Flower Mound Works with TCEQ to Monitor Air Quality and Awaits Results of Texas Department of State Health Services Study

2121 Cross Timbers Road
Flower Mound, Texas 75028
972.874.6000

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townhall@flower-mound.com
or call 972.539.SERV. After hours, please call 972.539.0525.

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Flower Mound Works with TCEQ to Monitor Air Quality and Awaits Results of Texas Department of State Health Services Study

The following "Frequently Asked Questions" is provided in response to inquiries regarding a study being conducted by the Texas Department of State Health Services and to provide information regarding Flower Mound's continued efforts to ensure air quality for the health, safety, and welfare of its residents.

1. Is the Town aware that the State is conducting a study in response to several childhood leukemia cases recently reported?� If so, what is the Town's response?

Town staff has spoken with representatives of the Texas Department of State Health Services to confirm that an analysis is being conducted to determine if there are statistically significant variables occurring in Flower Mound when compared to cancer rates throughout the State.� The analysis is anticipated to be concluded by February, and the Town will work with the State to provide any assistance necessary.� Previous studies conducted by the State, in Flower Mound and surrounding areas, did not reveal "cancer clusters," which are defined as the occurrence of a greater than expected number of cases within a group of people, a geographic area or a period of time. If a cancer cluster is found, officials can launch further studies to try and determine the cause.� However, according to State officials and the Health Department's Web site, very few cancer cluster investigations in the United States proceed to this stage.� Additional �information regarding the study, and previous studies conducted in Texas, can be found at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/tcr/clusters.shtm#whatis.�

2. What measures are being taken by the Town to ensure air quality in response to concerns related to gas well drilling?

Town staff met with officials from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on December 18, 2009 to formally request TCEQ visit two air compression sites within Flower Mound to perform air quality testing; and
To pursue options regarding placement of a permanent air quality monitoring station within the Town.
The Town is currently awaiting the results of a study conducted by TCEQ in response to potential benzene and toxic chemical levels related to oil and gas well drilling.� TCEQ is currently analyzing the data obtained from monitored locations in Tarrant, Denton, Johnson, Parker, and Wise counties. The results of this study should be available later this month.�
TCEQ reports have indicated that the eight-hour ozone design value for ambient air quality throughout North Texas is improving. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has established National Ambient Air Quality Standards for six air pollutants:� ozone, lead, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and respirable particulate matter.� The standards were established to protect the public from exposure to harmful amounts of pollutants.� The Town has hired an engineering firm to establish a baseline for Ambient Air Quality within Flower Mound to be conducted over the next 30-60 days.
The Town will continue to work with State and Federal agencies monitoring air quality within Flower Mound and the region.

3. Where can I obtain additional information?

Additional information regarding air quality can be found on the Town's Web site at http://www.flower-mound.com/env_resources/env_resources_airquality.php.� Links to TCEQ and various other sites related to air quality can be found on this page or by visiting www.tceq.state.tx.us/

Additional information concerning the Texas Department of State Health Services Study can be found at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/tcr/clusters.shtm#whatis.

Posted 01/12/10.