The next meeting of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the Liberty Site in Farmingdale has been scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 9 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Farmingdale Public Library on Merritts Road in Farmingdale. The meeting, originally scheduled for September, was postponed due to the events of Sept. 11. In addition, the Public Comment Period has been extended until Jan. 25. The comment period is an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions regarding the EPA's proposed plan to clean up the site, addressing the contamination of site soils, groundwater and the Massapequa Creek. EPA officials recently announced that the fire which took place at the site two weeks ago will in no way affect their cleanup plans.

The Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale (CCAF) urges all residents to attend the Jan. 9 meeting and voice their comments and concerns. Members of the CCAF, who have been fighting for the highest level of cleanup since discussions began, urge all residents to attend since they believe this may be the final opportunity the community has to receive the best cleanup possible.

Residents who would like to review any documents related to the Liberty Site may visit the Farmingdale Public Library. In addition, residents may visit the EPA's regional office, by appointment only, at 290 Broadway, 18th Floor in Manhattan. Please call 212-637-4308 to schedule an appointment.

Written comments regarding the proposed plan may be sent through Jan. 25 to Project Manager Lorenzo Thantu, US EPA, Emergency and Remedial Response Division, 290 Broadway, 20th Floor, New York NY 10007.

Anybody seeking additional information regarding the Liberty Site may contact Cecilia Echols, EPA community involvement coordinator, at 1-800-346-5009 or at 212-637-3678. Echols may also be reached by email at echols.cecilia@epa.gov.

-M. Kane