FOIA DUMP: Is Harmony Grove environmentally safe for learning? Thousands of emails and documents say… maybe?

The following is a FOIA Dump. We have not reviewed all the files and emails. This raw data is presented without commentary so that you our readers can come up with your own conclusions. The top portion of this post is emails, some may duplicate. The bottom of the page are screenshots of large files that we received from the MassDEP.

THESE ITEMS ARE NOT CHRONOLOGICAL AND ARE IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER. THE COLORS ARE ARBITRATRY.

HELPFUL HINT: You might want to use the browser search capability of CTRL + F to find words of interest for example “range” or “high” or “concern” or “voltage” or “hide from public”.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2021 9:57 AM
To: Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School – Second Round of Indoor Air Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hello Nelson and Purnima,

Please note that DEP will be on site @ Harmony Grove this coming Tuesday, 8/24 in order to take indoor air samples.

Nelson, please assist as needed. This should take less than 1/2 hour to complete.

Thank you,

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Fri, Aug 20, 2021 at 9:38 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt and thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me this morning.  I just spoke with Erik Johnson, who is our field team coordinator.  He will be arriving at the school to sample the indoor air next Tuesday August 24th at around 7:30 AM.  Please notify Nelson so he can assist with access.

Thank you very much for your cooperation and please let me know if you have any follow up questions.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2021 9:08 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School – Second Round of Indoor Air Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Some teachers are being allowed to return beginning Monday, 8/23. All teachers will return on 8/25 and be in the building until 6 PM. There is a school renaming ceremony planned for Saturday, 8/28 with a rain date of 8/29. There may be over 200 people on site for that event.

Our custodial crew returns to the second shift on 8/25 and the building will be open until 11:30 pm M-F beginning then. 

I know you only require a few minutes to take samples. You can access any time between those hours, however I am sure that having people occupy the building while taking air samples could negatively  sque air sample readings. I know perfumes, or air fresheners can impact air samples, so I suggest we schedule off hour air sampling. All staff except custodians are typically out of the building by 9 pm.

Let me know what you think.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Fri, Aug 20, 2021 at 6:33 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt – I hope this email finds you doing well.  MassDEP would like to arrange a second round of indoor air sampling at the Harmony Grove Elementary School for next week prior to the beginning of school on Thursday August 26th.  We would like access to the school to complete indoor air sampling in the gymnasium, cafeteria, and school office, which are the same locations we used in the original round.  Please let us know if either next Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday would be acceptable days for us to access the school to complete this work.

Thank you!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2021 1:41 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Semi-Annual Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

YUP

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Nov 29, 2021 at 1:28 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Feasting and football!  That will win every time with me!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2021 1:25 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Semi-Annual Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Yes, it was great! You also!

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Nov 29, 2021 at 1:22 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Perfect Matt – Thank you so much and I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, November 29, 2021 1:21 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; James.Collins@aptim.com; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Amy Burritt <aburritt@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Semi-Annual Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chis,

Thank you for the notification. I have included the appropriate staff so they are aware that DEP will be on site at Harmony Grove on 12/8 to perform water sampling from the monitoring wells.

Best,

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Nov 29, 2021 at 1:07 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good afternoon Matt and Brian – This email is to notify you that MassDEP’s state contractor Aptim will be completing semi-annual sampling next week at the Harmony Grove School on Wednesday December 8th starting at 7 AM. The sampling is part of regularly scheduled sampling events that are completed in the Spring and Fall each year as part of work related to the former General Chemical facility.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Tuesday, December 7, 2021 9:52 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi Chris,

Yes, you may collect air samples at HG on 12/14. Please check in with Nelson upon your arrival.

Thank you,

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Tue, Dec 7, 2021 at 9:10 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote: Good Morning Matt – MassDEP would like to collect one final round of indoor air samples from the school on next Tuesday December 14th.  Please let me know if this is acceptable

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, June 11, 2021 3:29 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Sean Fournier <sfournier@thermalrs.com>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Signs

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

I have no comment on the description, but I have confirmed the translations are accurate to the english description on the signage.

I have no questions.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Fri, Jun 11, 2021 at 12:27 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good afternoon Matt – I just want to give you a heads up that TRS will be posting signs approximately every 50 feet along the fence line that separates the General Chemical site from the school playground next Tuesday.  The attachment shows the types of signage that will be posted.  Sean – Please let us know if this description is accurate.  Matt – Please let us know if you have any follow up questions.

Thanks and have a great weekend!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, August 25, 2021 2:48 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Ernest Moreau <emoreau@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: GC – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Yes, you may arrive at 7 am Monday through Friday, however we ask that you exit by 7:45 am prior to the start of the school day.

Again, you must check in and ask for Nelson Torres upon arrival and masks must be worn at all times when in the building.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Wed, Aug 25, 2021 at 2:43 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good afternoon Matt and thank you for considering our proposal.  Would it also still be acceptable to sample earlier in the morning as we did during our last sampling round?  It just provides our field team with some flexibility.  The next round would be after Labor Day during the week extending from September 7 through September 10th.  I will be in touch with you to arrange a specific date/time next week on either Thursday/Friday as our field schedule for that week comes in to focus.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, August 25, 2021 2:37 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Ernest Moreau <emoreau@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: GC – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

We appreciate that DEP is willing to continue indoor air testing at the Harmony Grove School in order to ensure that the IAQ is monitored and proven to be safe for all that occupy our school.

We prefer that the air sampling be performed after 6 pm on weekdays, or we can make arrangements for building access on the weekends if needed.

We understand that taking the samples is accomplished within 1/2 hour while on site, however we would prefer to limit access for testers to off hours rather than when the school is fully occupied.

Also as previously discussed, the question becomes what is the background for air samples taken and how might full occupancy of the building being sampled impact, or skew test results of the samples taken when the building is fully occupied?

Please let me know if you would like to schedule a testing schedule as I have described.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Wed, Aug 25, 2021 at 8:54 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt and thank you so much for facilitating access to the school for indoor air sampling.  Our technical team had a meeting yesterday and we would like to complete this sampling every 2 weeks for the duration of the project.  It would also be helpful if we could due this during the day when teachers and students are present, so we can get an accurate depiction of indoor air quality when adults and children are present in the building.  Please let me know if you have time for a phone call to discuss this request.

Thank you!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, November 8, 2021 7:08 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Roden, Brian (DEP) <brian.roden@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: Courtesy Reminder: Harmony Grove Indoor Air Sampling Event Mon 11/8/21

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Yes, we are all set. 

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Nov 8, 2021 at 7:03 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt and Nelson – I am just checking back in to make sure you have received this message and our modification to the schedule for indoor air sampling at the school using summa cannisters from today to Wednesday is acceptable.  It would be great if you could please confirm this with our team.

Thank you!

From: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>
Sent: Sunday, November 7, 2021 4:26 PM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Amy Bright <abright@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Roden, Brian (DEP) <brian.roden@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Courtesy Reminder: Harmony Grove Indoor Air Sampling Event Mon 11/8/21

Good evening,

Due to some unanticipated personal conflicts with our staffing, MassDEP will be postponing the indoor air sampling event to this Wednesday, November 10. Please contact Chris Pyott or me if there are any issues with this Wednesday for the Summa canister deployment/retrieval.

Thank you all for your continued cooperation,

Erik Johnson

Environmental Analyst

Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

MA Department of Environmental Protection – Northeast Regional Office

205B Lowell St., Wilmington, MA 01887

Off: 978-694-3392  Mob: 781-400-4378

mass-dep-logo

From: Johnson, Erik (DEP)
Sent: Friday, November 5, 2021 11:57 AM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Amy Bright <abright@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Roden, Brian (DEP) <brian.roden@mass.gov>
Subject: Courtesy Reminder: Harmony Grove Indoor Air Sampling Event Mon 11/8/21

Good morning,

This is a courtesy reminder that MassDEP will be visiting the Harmony Grove School this upcoming Monday 11/8/21 to collect indoor and exterior ambient air samples. MassDEP representative Brian Roden will be arriving around 7:30AM to deploy the Summa canisters, and will coordinate directly with Nelson Torres to access the proposed sampling locations. The canisters will be deployed in a corner of the gym (up on top of several folded mats), on the stage in the cafeteria, and in an area of the administrative office that is out of the way (potentially on top of some shelving in the office hallway). The ambient air canister will be affixed to the chain link fence west or southwest of the student playground area, with the intention of characterizing air flowing towards the school from the west and southwest. I have attached a photograph of a typical Summa canister for reference. I believe the exterior Summa will also have a small tag on it indicating that it has been deployed under MassDEP oversight.

I will then stop by briefly around noon to check on the four canisters (accompanied by Nelson Torres), and then again between 2:30-3:00PM to retrieve the Summa canisters.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the sampling, do not hesitate to contact either me or Chris Pyott.

Thank you again for your cooperation, and have a great weekend!

Erik Johnson

Environmental Analyst

Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

MA Department of Environmental Protection – Northeast Regional Office

205B Lowell St., Wilmington, MA 01887

Off: 978-694-3392  Mob: 781-400-4378

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, November 8, 2021 7:08 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Roden, Brian (DEP) <brian.roden@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: Courtesy Reminder: Harmony Grove Indoor Air Sampling Event Mon 11/8/21

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Yes, we are all set. 

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Nov 8, 2021 at 7:03 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt and Nelson – I am just checking back in to make sure you have received this message and our modification to the schedule for indoor air sampling at the school using summa cannisters from today to Wednesday is acceptable.  It would be great if you could please confirm this with our team.

Thank you!

From: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>
Sent: Sunday, November 7, 2021 4:26 PM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Amy Bright <abright@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Roden, Brian (DEP) <brian.roden@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Courtesy Reminder: Harmony Grove Indoor Air Sampling Event Mon 11/8/21

Good evening,

Due to some unanticipated personal conflicts with our staffing, MassDEP will be postponing the indoor air sampling event to this Wednesday, November 10. Please contact Chris Pyott or me if there are any issues with this Wednesday for the Summa canister deployment/retrieval.

Thank you all for your continued cooperation,

Erik Johnson

Environmental Analyst

Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

MA Department of Environmental Protection – Northeast Regional Office

205B Lowell St., Wilmington, MA 01887

Off: 978-694-3392  Mob: 781-400-4378

mass-dep-logo

From: Johnson, Erik (DEP)
Sent: Friday, November 5, 2021 11:57 AM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Amy Bright <abright@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Roden, Brian (DEP) <brian.roden@mass.gov>
Subject: Courtesy Reminder: Harmony Grove Indoor Air Sampling Event Mon 11/8/21

Good morning,

This is a courtesy reminder that MassDEP will be visiting the Harmony Grove School this upcoming Monday 11/8/21 to collect indoor and exterior ambient air samples. MassDEP representative Brian Roden will be arriving around 7:30AM to deploy the Summa canisters, and will coordinate directly with Nelson Torres to access the proposed sampling locations. The canisters will be deployed in a corner of the gym (up on top of several folded mats), on the stage in the cafeteria, and in an area of the administrative office that is out of the way (potentially on top of some shelving in the office hallway). The ambient air canister will be affixed to the chain link fence west or southwest of the student playground area, with the intention of characterizing air flowing towards the school from the west and southwest. I have attached a photograph of a typical Summa canister for reference. I believe the exterior Summa will also have a small tag on it indicating that it has been deployed under MassDEP oversight.

I will then stop by briefly around noon to check on the four canisters (accompanied by Nelson Torres), and then again between 2:30-3:00PM to retrieve the Summa canisters.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the sampling, do not hesitate to contact either me or Chris Pyott.

Thank you again for your cooperation, and have a great weekend!

Erik Johnson

Environmental Analyst

Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

MA Department of Environmental Protection – Northeast Regional Office

205B Lowell St., Wilmington, MA 01887

Off: 978-694-3392  Mob: 781-400-4378

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2021 2:10 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School – Indoor Air Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi Chris,

Thank you for this update and DEP’s plan to return to Harmony Grove on 11/16.

I have included the appropriate FPS staff in this email so they are aware of the initial findings to date, also that you will provide more air canister test results soon and of your plan to continue air tests next Tuesday.

As always, please check in with Nelson Torres upon your arrival to Harmony Grove.

Best,

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Fri, Nov 12, 2021 at 12:57 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good afternoon Matt and Brian – MassDEP wanted to notify you that in the indoor air samples we collected from the school on Wednesday November 10th we identified values of Cis-1,2 DCE from 1.2 to 2 ug/m3, which are above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we plan on re-testing the indoor air within the school at all 3 locations next Tuesday November 16th.  We will also be comparing the results to those obtained through sampling indoor air at the school with summa cannisters.  The summa cannister samples were collected on the same day (November 10th) and at the same locations within the school.  We expect the results of the summa cannister sampling by the end of next week.  Please let us know if you have any questions.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Thursday, September 2, 2021 11:14 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Ernest Moreau <emoreau@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School – Indoor Air Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Correct. No school on the 7th, Rosh Hashanah

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Thu, Sep 2, 2021 at 10:23 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Hey Matt – Just double checking on this one.  Our proposed sampling day is next Tuesday September 7th.  I do not see this listed as a vacation day on the school schedule available on line, so I just want to confirm so EJ can arrive at an appropriate time for sampling.  We just want to make sure you didn’t think we were planning on heading out on Labor Day.

Please confirm – Thank you!

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Thursday, September 2, 2021 8:46 AM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Ernest Moreau <emoreau@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: RE: Harmony Grove School – Indoor Air Sampling

Perfect – Thanks Matt!  Much appreciated!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Thursday, September 2, 2021 8:20 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; John Clow <jclow@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Ernest Moreau <emoreau@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School – Indoor Air Sampling

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi Chris,

That works for us. There is no school that day, so you may arrive at any time and see Nelson Torres upon your arrival.

Best,

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Thu, Sep 2, 2021 at 7:42 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt – We are hoping to arrange the next round of indoor air sampling at the Harmony Grove School for next Tuesday September 7th in the early morning.  Please let us know if this schedule is acceptable.

Thank you!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2021 10:51 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Jhorrigan@Framinghamma.gov; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Scott Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>
Subject: Re: FW: General Chemical – Health and Safety Meeting – Thurday June 24th at 10 AM

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

I will attend and have notified the appropraite FPS staff of this planned health and safety meeting.

Thank you,

Matt

On Tue, Jun 22, 2021 at 8:49 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Hey folks – Please provide confirmation that the City is all set for the upcoming Site Health and Safety meeting at General Chemical.

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Monday, June 21, 2021 1:46 PM
To: ‘Jhorrigan@Framinghamma.gov’ <Jhorrigan@Framinghamma.gov>
Subject: FW: General Chemical – Health and Safety Meeting – Thurday June 24th at 10 AM

FYI – My apologies Jennique – I had your email address incorrect in the first go round.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Monday, June 21, 2021 11:55 AM
To: ‘Thatcher W. Kezer’ <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>; ‘Matthew Torti’ <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; ‘Jhorrigan@framingham.gov‘ <Jhorrigan@framingham.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; ‘James.Collins@aptim.com‘ <James.Collins@aptim.com>; Robert Poulin <bpoulin@thermalrs.com>; ‘Sean Fournier’ <sfournier@thermalrs.com>; ‘Vining, Eric’ <Eric.Vining@aptim.com>
Subject: General Chemical – Health and Safety Meeting – Thurday June 24th at 10 AM

MassDEP and its contractors will hold a Health and Safety meeting at the General Chemical Site this Thursday June 24th at 10 AM.  MassDEP does not have a contact email list for the various police, fire, and department of public works officials that the City would like to attend this meeting, so please forward this along to the appropriate contacts.  The meeting should take no longer than 1 hour, and will include a discussion of operation of the thermal remediation system, with a focus on health and safety protocols. Limited parking is available on site, but overflow parking is available in the Woodrow Wilson School lot.

Massachusetts guidelines are being followed with no requirements for wearing masks outdoors.  Keep social distancing in mind, and feel free to wear a mask if you would like.  Please bring a hard hat and a safety vest.  There are a few extras available at the Site, but do your best to bring your own, because of the limited supply.  Steel toes shoes/boots are recommended but not required.

Please let me know if you have any follow up questions.

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Thursday, December 9, 2021 2:37 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: RE: Harmony Grove School

Hey Brian – The electrical input to the subsurface was shut down on Tuesday November 30th and the soil vapor extraction system was shut down on Monday December 6th.  MassDEP will continue the monitoring program until we confirm that no health and safety issues exist.

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 9, 2021 2:12 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Thank you for the report.  Do you have an anticipated shut down date for the remediation system?

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, December 8, 2021 12:02 PM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize and verify the sender and know the content is safe.

Good afternoon Matt and Brian – Attached is the October data package for samples collected from the Harmony Grove School property.

Please let us know if you have any follow up questions.

One Framingham – Focused on the Future

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1:07 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Yes, that is fine. Again, please see Nelson on site. Hopefully you are picking up TCE from a hand sanitizer or something minor. We do not show TCE listed in any of our cleaning products. Nelson can provide you access to our SDS files on site.

Matt

Matthew Torti

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Monday, October 25, 2021 7:23 AM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: RE: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Good morning Matt and Brian – I just wanted to give you a heads up that no issues were identified in the indoor air within the cafeteria in the sample MassDEP collected last Thursday and analyzed on Friday.  PCE, TCE, and other site COC’s were all below detection limits.

Please let me know if you have any follow up questions.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1:07 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Yes, that is fine. Again, please see Nelson on site. Hopefully you are picking up TCE from a hand sanitizer or something minor. We do not show TCE listed in any of our cleaning products. Nelson can provide you access to our SDS files on site.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Wed, Oct 20, 2021 at 10:55 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt – In the indoor air sample we collected yesterday from the cafeteria we identified a TCE value above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we would like to retest this location tomorrow.  Please let us know if this is acceptable.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, November 22, 2021 3:27 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Juliana Kessler <jkessler@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Amy Burritt <aburritt@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Harmony Grove School – Indoor Air – Summa Cannister Results

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Hi Chris,

Thanks for the update. 

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Nov 22, 2021 at 1:15 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good afternoon Matt and Brian – I just wanted to give you a heads up that no issues were identified in the indoor air samples MassDEP collected within the school with summa cannisters on Wednesday November 10th.  No contaminants exceeded residential threshold values.  A summary table and the laboratory report will be included in the summary report for all data collected in November.

Please let me know if you have any follow up questions.

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 4:20 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Good afternoon Brian – Yes – the outdoor sampling has been implemented each time we collect indoor air samples.

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 3:52 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Thanks for the update. Are you collecting outdoor samples on each of the days that you collect indoor air samples?

Thanks,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 2:46 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: FW: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Good afternoon Brian – I just wanted to loop you in on our conversation and coordination with Matt Torti today.  In the indoor air sample we collected yesterday from the cafeteria at the Harmony Grove School we identified a TCE value above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we are retesting this location tomorrow. 

Please let me know if you any follow up questions or if you would like to have a phone call to discuss.

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1:09 PM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: RE: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Thanks Matt – I will have Erik Johnson coordinate directly with Nelson.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1:07 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Yes, that is fine. Again, please see Nelson on site. Hopefully you are picking up TCE from a hand sanitizer or something minor. We do not show TCE listed in any of our cleaning products. Nelson can provide you access to our SDS files on site.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Wed, Oct 20, 2021 at 10:55 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt – In the indoor air sample we collected yesterday from the cafeteria we identified a TCE value above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we would like to retest this location tomorrow.  Please let us know if this is acceptable.

One Framingham – Focused on the Future

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, October 18, 2021 6:30 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Carol Bois <cbois@framinghamma.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Thank you.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Mon, Oct 18, 2021 at 6:28 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good Morning Matt – The MassDEP team will discuss the situation at our weekly internal meeting on Wednesday and I will be in touch later in the week.

Thank you!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 3:52 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Carol Bois <cbois@framinghamma.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

We would defer to you as to where the best location to place the canisters may be in each of those spaces from an air sampling perspective.

Short of placing the canisters in a corner, or installing shelf units 10′ above the floor and placing the canisters on the shelf, we can not offer a location where they are guaranteed not to be touched.

The offer remains to place the canisters after the regular school day and leave them overnight for an early morning pick-up. We do have custodial staff on site Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 11:30 p.m.

Please let us know how you would like to proceed.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Fri, Oct 15, 2021 at 2:57 PM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Hey Matt – Is this feasible in the gym and cafeteria?  Perhaps when Erik Johnson conducts the normal sampling next Tuesday, Nelson could guide him to acceptable locations within the Office, Gym, and Cafeteria so he is ready to go on November 2nd.

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 2:52 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Carol Bois <cbois@framinghamma.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

I am your contact to coordinate the placement of the sampling canisters. The canisters would need to be placed out of reach so students can not touch them.

You can identify where the best location when you arrive on site and as you have done previously, coordinate with Nelson if you require anything from us.

I have included the appropriate FPS staff in this email so they are aware of this.

Matt

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 2:48 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; Carol Bois <cbois@framinghamma.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

I cc’d Matt Torti on the last message, he will respond about the school representative.

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 2:39 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; Carol Bois <cbois@framinghamma.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Hey Brian – Who would you recommend we contact for this purpose.  We will need to meet with someone who has the authority to clear these locations.

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 2:26 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; Carol Bois <cbois@framinghamma.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

I would be able to meet Erik at the site on a Tuesday or Thursday, but clearing the location for the canisters would be up to someone from the school department.

Thanks,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 2:04 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Hey Brian –  I will discuss your response with our team during our meeting next week.  Would you be able to meet with Erik on a Tuesday or Thursday prior to November 2nd to clear the locations within the school for summa cannister placement?

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Friday, October 15, 2021 11:17 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Yes, we would still prefer to see at least one round of indoor air sampling be conducted with Summa canisters as was presented in your previous response highlighted below.  This will provide data on both an 8 hour exposure and confirmation that the results from the bag grab samples are representative of the indoor air conditions.

Will you also be doing the indoor air grab samples as usual so there will be data from both methods collected at the same time?

1c and 4 – Based on our experience at other sites, an 8-hour Summa sample is unlikely to differ significantly from our grab samples.  We have multiple lines of evidence, including: soil vapor data near the school; twice-weekly ambient air sampling, which has never detected an exceedance of our screening criteria for any of the primary site chemicals, and VGAC effluent/modeling data – all of which indicate that an indoor air issue at the school is unlikely. In addition, there is a lack of other site COCs detected in indoor air. If the PCE detected in the school was coming from the site, we would also expect to see other site COCs, such as TCE, cis-1,2-DCE, and freons.  However, since HVAC operations can have an impact on indoor air VOCs in large buildings from both a vapor intrusion pathway and ambient air source,  MassDEP will conduct a one-time round of indoor air sampling within the school using summa cannisters as a confirmatory effort.  We will complete this action later in October when the ERH system is operating at maximum subsurface temperatures, and on a day when winds are blowing toward the school.

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Thursday, October 14, 2021 6:37 AM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: FW: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good Morning Brian – I hope this email finds you well.  I sent out the email listed below right before I left for vacation and upon my return on Tuesday October 12th, I had not yet received a response from you.  I wanted to check in with to see if you still felt the indoor air sampling with summa cannisters was necessary, or based on the information provided in the email you felt comfortable that the techniques we are presently using is sufficient.  If you are still interested in MassDEP completing one round of indoor air sampling using the 8 hour summa cannisters, we would like to conduct this activity on Tuesday November 2nd.  We recognize in our email below that we did indicate that we would try to complete this sampling when the wind was blowing towards the school, but this is not feasible to coordinate because the prevailing wind most often does not blow in this direction.  Prior to this date we would like to arrange a time with you to meet Erik Johnson at the school to identify specific locations within the gym, cafeteria, and school office, which are our 3 normal sampling areas, to place the summa cannisters during the sampling effort.  As you know the summa cannisters will have to be placed at the identified locations for 8 hours, so we need to ensure the locations are deemed safe and acceptable.  Erik is out at the General Chemical Site each week on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s, so we can hopefully find an acceptable time for you to meet him at the school in order to identify the final locations for summa cannister placement.

MassDEP looks forward to your response.

Have a great day!

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Friday, October 1, 2021 11:35 AM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good morning Brian – Attached is the updated report, with units corrected, for the August monitoring data collected at the Harmony Grove School.  The following email outlines the answers to your questions and lists the actions MassDEP will take to address your concerns.

1a. The Kynar bags could possibly contribute up to 5 ug/m3 of PCE, but typically levels are much lower. We know how much PCE is in each bag (unless it is brand new) because we run bag blanks before sending the bags out for sampling. MassDEP checked the bag blanks for the two samples in question, and both had PCE at concentrations of 0.6 and 0.8 ug/m3. If the “blank” sample is subtracted from the measured sample value, neither one exceeds the residential threshold value of 1.4 ug/m3.  In the future, we will include the “bag blank” value for each sample collected within the school.

1b and 2&3 – MassDEP will collect an outdoor air sample on each day that we collect indoor air samples at the school.  We will also record wind direction from the nearest weather station on the day of sampling.

1c and 4 – Based on our experience at other sites, an 8-hour Summa sample is unlikely to differ significantly from our grab samples.  We have multiple lines of evidence, including: soil vapor data near the school; twice-weekly ambient air sampling, which has never detected an exceedance of our screening criteria for any of the primary site chemicals, and VGAC effluent/modeling data – all of which indicate that an indoor air issue at the school is unlikely. In addition, there is a lack of other site COCs detected in indoor air. If the PCE detected in the school was coming from the site, we would also expect to see other site COCs, such as TCE, cis-1,2-DCE, and freons.  However, since HVAC operations can have an impact on indoor air VOCs in large buildings from both a vapor intrusion pathway and ambient air source,  MassDEP will conduct a one-time round of indoor air sampling within the school using summa cannisters as a confirmatory effort.  We will complete this action later in October when the ERH system is operating at maximum subsurface temperatures, and on a day when winds are blowing toward the school.

Additionally, although the indoor air concentrations of PCE are above the threshold value, they are well below the “cause for immediate concern” value of 200 micrograms/m3.  The PCE Threshold value is set at the 50th percentile of typical indoor air levels.  That means that it is likely that value will be exceeded in 50% of buildings. The 90th percentile value is 4.1 ug/m3 – which means that 10% of building will have levels above this concentration.  As noted previously, PCE is a very common indoor air contaminant that is found in many potential background sources.

I hope this information and plan addresses the City’s concerns. I will be away on vacation next week, so if you have additional questions or would like to discuss this situation further please feel free to reach out to Eric Worrall, who has been included on the cc list of this email response.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Thursday, September 30, 2021 11:16 AM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

All,

I have included a copy of the report for those who are new to this email chain.

Thank you for the providing the results of the August sampling of Indoor Air, Ambient Air and Soil Vapor at the Harmony Grove Elementary School property at 169 Leland Street in Framingham in the September 27, 2021 Environmental Monitoring Results report related to the Department’s ongoing General Chemical remediation project. The Framingham Health Department is providing the Department with the following comments on the report for your consideration prior to the upcoming sampling event next week on October 5th.

  1. The indoor air data from August 24th indicates that tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene, or PCE) was detected inside the school gym (1.5 ug/m3) and inside the cafeteria (1.9 ug/m3) at levels exceeding the Indoor Air Residential Threshold Value (1.4 ug/m3).  The report states “Although these values exceed the Indoor Air Threshold Value of 1.4 ug/m3, the levels of PCE sporadically detected inside the school are not a cause for concern.  PCE is a very common indoor air contaminant associated with numerous background sources.  In addition, it can also be present in the 0.5-liter Kynar sampling bags as a manufacturing artifact at levels of up to 5 ug/m3.”  We have several concerns/questions regarding this conclusion:
  1. If the Kynar sample bags are possibly contributing up to 5 ug/m3, how can you tell the difference between actual PCE in the air vs. contribution from the sampling bags? Is it possible to draw a conclusion that there is no cause for concern and/or that the remediation system at the General Chemical facility is not a potential source, if the bag itself is confounding the results?
  2. If the indoor air and outdoor air are not being sampled at the same time, how do you know whether or not outdoor air may be influencing the indoor air concentrations?
  3. If the screening sample is a grab sample only, is that considered an accurate measurement of indoor exposure to any PCE (whether or not it is related to the General Chemical remediation project)? If not, how can the conclusion be drawn that the levels are “sporadic” and “not a cause for concern”? Wouldn’t an 8-hour Summa canister measurement be a more reliable way to follow up the Department’s field screening for these chlorinated solvents, now that they have been detected above the Indoor Air Threshold? Even if only marginally above the standard, it would be important for this sensitive population to have an accurate measurement of the PCE concentrations nearby and/or in the school.
  1. The City requests that the Department collect the outdoor ambient air and indoor air samples at the same time in all future sampling rounds to establish a relationship between the two.
  1. The City requests that wind direction data at time of sampling be included to determine if the wind direction is generally towards the school or away from it.
  1. The City requests that the Department use a Summa canister for air samples to provide better data and remove some of the uncertainty associated with the mobile lab’s sampling method.

Sincerely,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 7:13 AM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good morning Brian – My apologies.  You are correct.  The units should be micrograms/m3 not milligrams/m3. We will make the correction and send along an updated letter.

Have a great day!

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 6:32 AM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good morning Brian – The report is correct and there is no error in the units.  The language in the paragraph goes on to explain why these levels are not a cause for concern.  PCE is a common indoor air contaminant, and it can also be present in the Kynar bags we use to collect the samples.  Our extensive ambient air and soil vapor sampling continues to show that there is no subsurface vapor or ambient air plume travelling towards the residences and/or school from the treatment areas at the General Chemical Site.  We are sampling the indoor air inside the school every 2 weeks and our next round will be next Tuesday October 5th.  I would be happy to discuss this with you in more detail.  If you are interested in a follow up call, just let me know via email and we can arrange a time to talk.

Thanks and have a nice day.

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Monday, September 27, 2021 5:04 PM
To: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Erik,

Thank you for the report on the recent sampling associated with General Chemical.  I assume that the concentrations of PCE reported in the gym and cafeteria in the paragraph below have an error with the units.

Thank you,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, September 27, 2021 4:08 PM
To: Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>
Subject: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good afternoon Mr. Lynch,

Attached is a data package that contains the results of testing conducted by MassDEP at the Harmony Grove School in August, 2021.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or Steve Johnson.

Sincerely,

Erik Johnson

Environmental Analyst

Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

MA Department of Environmental Protection

Northeast Regional Office

205B Lowell St., Wilmington, MA 01887

Ph: 978-694-3392

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 3:52 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Thanks for the update. Are you collecting outdoor samples on each of the days that you collect indoor air samples?

Thanks,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 2:46 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: FW: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Good afternoon Brian – I just wanted to loop you in on our conversation and coordination with Matt Torti today.  In the indoor air sample we collected yesterday from the cafeteria at the Harmony Grove School we identified a TCE value above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we are retesting this location tomorrow. 

Please let me know if you any follow up questions or if you would like to have a phone call to discuss.

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1:09 PM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: RE: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Thanks Matt – I will have Erik Johnson coordinate directly with Nelson.

Enjoy the rest of your day!

From: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 1:07 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>; Nelson Torres <ntorres@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Thomas Begin <tbegin@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Miriam Aviles <maviles@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Purnima DeMorais <pdemorais@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Robert Tremblay <rtremblay@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Eugene Penrod <epenrod@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Chris,

Yes, that is fine. Again, please see Nelson on site. Hopefully you are picking up TCE from a hand sanitizer or something minor. We do not show TCE listed in any of our cleaning products. Nelson can provide you access to our SDS files on site.

Matt

Matthew Torti

Director of Buildings and Grounds

Framingham Public Schools

19  Flagg Drive #21 A

Framingham, MA  01702

Tel: 508-626-9111

Fax: 508-789-3385

Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status

On Wed, Oct 20, 2021 at 10:55 AM Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us> wrote:

Good morning Matt – In the indoor air sample we collected yesterday from the cafeteria we identified a TCE value above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we would like to retest this location tomorrow.  Please let us know if this is acceptable.

One Framingham – Focused on the Future

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, July 6, 2021 5:30 PM
To: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>
Cc: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; .DPW Meter Appt. Schedule <meter@framinghamma.gov>
Subject: RE: Wilson School indoor air

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Steve,

I am discussing this issue with other City representatives and will reply in the near future.

Thanks,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>
Sent: Friday, July 2, 2021 12:59 PM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Subject: Wilson School indoor air

Hey Brian,

When we spoke last week about testing the indoor air at the Wilson School, you mentioned a previous sampling event when there was some controversy about the results.  If I recall correctly, you mentioned an event around the Thanksgiving holiday years ago.  I went back to my files and found a Thanksgiving sampling event by our Field Assessment and Support Team (FAST) in 2007.  We were called out at that time due to the faulty “remedial” system that GCC had installed.  I have attached the report of that incident.  As you will see, there were no contaminants detected in indoor air on that occasion.  The report also mentions the existence of two 6-mil polyethylene vapor barriers beneath the gym floors.

Maybe the incident you’re thinking about was in December 2011.  I found an email from our Boston office (they were managing the General Chemical site at that time) referring to a call from Carol Bois.  The email says that the Town had hired Fuss & O’Neill to do indoor air testing in November 2011, and they picked up concentrations of VOCs in the indoor air similar to those found at General Chemical.  MassDEP’s FAST staff were called out again.  I have attached a report on that incident too.

The conclusion from both of these incidents is that we do not believe vapor intrusion is a concern at the Wilson School.  Rather, we believe the likely cause of the 2011 contaminants in the school was from (1) fugitive emissions from poorly controlled cleanup operations at General Chemical, and (2) possibly from a stainless steel cleaner that contained PCE. 

The response in both of these events was to go directly to the school and collect indoor air samples, and then interpret the results. We have successfully done so at numerous VI cases, and we believe indoor air monitoring is a necessary part of our monitoring of the GCC site during our cleanup activities.

Please let us know if you have any comments, or if you would like to discuss the matter further.  We’d like to get out to the school next week to collect pre-remedial “baseline” samples.

Steve Johnson

MassDEP, Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

Stephen.johnson@mass.gov

978-694-3350

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Thursday, December 9, 2021 2:12 PM
To: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Thank you for the report.  Do you have an anticipated shut down date for the remediation system?

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, December 8, 2021 12:02 PM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize and verify the sender and know the content is safe.

Good afternoon Matt and Brian – Attached is the October data package for samples collected from the Harmony Grove School property.

Please let us know if you have any follow up questions.

One Framingham – Focused on the Future

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>
Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 7:13 AM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>; Fitzgerald, John J (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <natalie.johnson@state.ma.us>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good morning Brian – My apologies.  You are correct.  The units should be micrograms/m3 not milligrams/m3. We will make the correction and send along an updated letter.

Have a great day!

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP)
Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 6:32 AM
To: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good morning Brian – The report is correct and there is no error in the units.  The language in the paragraph goes on to explain why these levels are not a cause for concern.  PCE is a common indoor air contaminant, and it can also be present in the Kynar bags we use to collect the samples.  Our extensive ambient air and soil vapor sampling continues to show that there is no subsurface vapor or ambient air plume travelling towards the residences and/or school from the treatment areas at the General Chemical Site.  We are sampling the indoor air inside the school every 2 weeks and our next round will be next Tuesday October 5th.  I would be happy to discuss this with you in more detail.  If you are interested in a follow up call, just let me know via email and we can arrange a time to talk.

Thanks and have a nice day.

From: Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Monday, September 27, 2021 5:04 PM
To: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: RE: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Erik,

Thank you for the report on the recent sampling associated with General Chemical.  I assume that the concentrations of PCE reported in the gym and cafeteria in the paragraph below have an error with the units.

Thank you,

Brian Smith

Environmental Protection Officer

Department of Public Health

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street, Room 205

Framingham, MA  01702-8325

(508) 532-5470

btsmith@framinghamma.gov

From: Johnson, Erik (DEP) <erik.johnson@state.ma.us>
Sent: Monday, September 27, 2021 4:08 PM
To: Lincoln Lynch <llynch@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Alexandra M. DePalo <adepalo@framinghamma.gov>; Brian T. Smith <btsmith@framinghamma.gov>; mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us; pvadhera@framingham.k12.ma.us; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>
Subject: Test results for Harmony Grove Elementary School – August 2021

Good afternoon Mr. Lynch,

Attached is a data package that contains the results of testing conducted by MassDEP at the Harmony Grove School in August, 2021.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or Steve Johnson.

Sincerely,

Erik Johnson

Environmental Analyst

Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

MA Department of Environmental Protection

Northeast Regional Office

205B Lowell St., Wilmington, MA 01887

Ph: 978-694-3392

—–Original Message—–
From: Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 12:52 PM
To: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the  Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Thanks. I have a 1:00 meeting that should last about 30 minutes.

Thatcher W. Kezer III

Chief Operating Officer

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street

Framingham MA 01702

508.532.5400

tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>

From: Worrall, Eric (DEP)
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 11:02 AM
To: Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>
Subject: FW: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

FYI, will give you a call in a little bit. tx

From: Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2021 10:55 AM
To: Matthew Torti <mtorti@framingham.k12.ma.us>
Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>; Fitzgerald, John J. (DEP) <john.j.fitzgerald@mass.gov>; Johnson, Erik (DEP) <Erik.Johnson@Mass.gov>; Johnson, Natalie (DEP) <Natalie.Johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: General Chemical – Harmony Grove School

Good morning Matt – In the indoor air sample we collected yesterday from the cafeteria we identified a TCE value above what we typically see.  It is below any level of health concern, but out of an abundance of caution we would like to retest this location tomorrow.  Please let us know if this is acceptable.

—–Original Message—–
From: Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 8, 2021 2:42 PM
To: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>; Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov>
Subject: Fwd: General Chemical “Potential Hazard” Notice

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the  Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Eric and Stephen,

Here is the translation of the letter sent on 6/30. Renan doesn’t have access to Word so it is in the body of the email that can be copied and pasted.

Thatcher

Thatcher W. Kezer III

Chief Operating Officer

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street

Framingham MA 01702

508.532.5400

tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>

Begin forwarded message:

From: “Renan Y. Pinheiro” <ryp@framinghamma.gov<mailto:ryp@framinghamma.gov>>

Subject: Re: General Chemical “Potential Hazard” Notice

Date: July 8, 2021 at 2:20:53 PM EDT

To: “Thatcher W. Kezer” <tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>>

Cc: Jennique Horrigan <jhorrigan@framinghamma.gov<mailto:jhorrigan@framinghamma.gov>>, Dolores Hamilton <dhamilton@framinghamma.gov<mailto:dhamilton@framinghamma.gov>>

Please see the translation  below – I don’t have access to word to make a proper file – but the translation to Portuguese from the letter you sent is displayed below

Thank you

30 de junho de 2021

Sr. Stephen Johnson

Departamento de Limpeza de Locais de Resíduos Departamento de Proteção Ambiental de Massachusetts 205B Lowell St.

Wilmington, MA 01887

Assunto: Notificação de Riscos Potenciais Relacionados ao Sistema de Aquecimento de Resistência Elétrica na rua Leland 133, Framingham

Querido senhor Johnson,

TRS Group, Inc. (TRS) está enviando esta carta para lembrá-lo de que, devido ao potencial inerente de riscos térmicos e elétricos associados ao processo de aquecimento por resistência elétrica (ERH), as precauções de segurança prescritas devem ser seguidas no local mencionado. Essas precauções também são referenciadas no Plano de Saúde e Segurança TRS ‘TRS HASP MA.FRA.1460 acf.pdf”. O TRS considera todos os perigos potenciais como questões cruciais para a segurança do pessoal e recomendamos enfaticamente que você encaminhe este aviso a todos os proprietários de propriedades a 30 metros da área de tratamento do ERH e todas as outras partes apropriadas. Em outros locais, o TRS tomou providências para facilitar o trabalho de outras partes dentro e ao redor dos sistemas ERH e fará adaptações para garantir a existência de condições de trabalho seguras se o trabalho subterrâneo for necessário.

As seguintes precauções e notificações devem ser tomadas para garantir que um projeto seguro e bem-sucedido seja implementado:

– no mínimo, não deve haver escavação, perfuração ou outras atividades de subsuperfície conduzidas dentro de 100 pés da zona de tratamento durante o projeto ERH sem contato e agendamento com TRS com antecedência. Uma política estrita de “NO DIG” deve ser implementada pelos proprietários ou gerentes do site. Essas atividades incluem obter acesso a qualquer componente do subsolo, como poços de monitoramento ou abóbadas do subsolo. O TRS instalou sinais ao longo da cerca do perímetro para informar o pessoal de campo sobre esses perigos.

– Não haverá invasão da propriedade da 133 Leland Street devido ao perigo da alta tensão. Se houver algum motivo, alguém deve acessar o site do TRS, deve ser contatado.

– O armazenamento de qualquer material contra a cerca da propriedade ou edifício de metal existente pode aumentar o risco de choque elétrico.

No mínimo, a proibição das atividades potencialmente perigosas discutidas nesta carta permanecerá em vigor até que as operações do ERH sejam concluídas.

Se você tiver alguma dúvida ou precisar de mais esclarecimentos sobre as informações acima, não hesite em entrar em contato comigo pelo telefone (360) 560-0243.

Sinceramente,

TRS Group, Inc.

On Jul 2, 2021, at 10:47 AM, Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>> wrote:

 Renan,

A little more breathing room on the translation. DEP is looking for Thursday instead of Tuesday next week.

Thatcher

Thatcher W. Kezer III

Chief Operating Officer

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street

Framingham MA 01702

508.532.5400

tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>

Begin forwarded message:

From: “Pyott, Christopher (DEP)” <christopher.pyott@state.ma.us<mailto:christopher.pyott@state.ma.us>>

Subject: RE: General Chemical “Potential Hazard” Notice

Date: July 2, 2021 at 6:24:29 AM EDT

To: “Thatcher W. Kezer” <tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>>

Cc: “Worrall, Eric (DEP)” <eric.worrall@state.ma.us<mailto:eric.worrall@state.ma.us>>, “Johnson, Stephen (DEP)” <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us<mailto:stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>>

Good morning Thatcher – Our meeting has been postponed until Friday July 9th so we now have a little breathing room.  If we could get the letter translated by mid-day on Thursday that would be perfect.

Thank you so much for your help and have a wonderful holiday weekend!

—–Original Message—–

From: Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>>

Sent: Thursday, July 1, 2021 6:26 PM

To: Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson@mass.gov<mailto:stephen.johnson@mass.gov>>

Cc: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov<mailto:eric.worrall@mass.gov>>; Pyott, Christopher (DEP) <christopher.pyott@mass.gov<mailto:christopher.pyott@mass.gov>>

Subject: Re: General Chemical “Potential Hazard” Notice

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the  Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Stephen,

I have forwarded the letter to our Brazilian translator and asked if Tuesday was possible. I’m not sure of his time off plans for this week and next. I will let you know his response.

Thatcher

Thatcher W. Kezer III

Chief Operating Officer

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street

Framingham MA 01702

508.532.5400

tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov><mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>

On Jun 30, 2021, at 2:59 PM, Johnson, Stephen (DEP) <stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us<mailto:stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us><mailto:stephen.johnson3@state.ma.us>> wrote:

Hi Thatcher,

I hope to impose on the City to translate another letter into Portuguese for us.  Attached is a one-page letter that we want to share with abutters and workers near to the former General Chemical facility.  The letter explains the potential electrical hazard associated with high voltage that will be in use.  We have planned to hold a meeting of the abutting residents and abutters next Wednesday, July 7, at 8:00 AM.  If the City could translate the attached letter by the noon on Tuesday, it would be helpful to us.  At the same time, we will be asking MassDEP’s translation service to have it translated into Spanish.

We appreciate the assistance the City has provided to get the cleanup moving forward.

Steve Johnson

MassDEP, Bureau of Waste Site Cleanup

Stephen.johnson@mass.gov<mailto:Stephen.johnson@mass.gov><mailto:Stephen.johnson@mass.gov>

978-694-3350

<MA.FRA.1460 Potential Hazards Letter 063021 acf.pdf>

—–Original Message—–
From: Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Thursday, June 24, 2021 3:34 PM
To: Jennique Horrigan <jhorrigan@framinghamma.gov>; Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>
Subject: Mayor’s Briefing on GC Site Cleanup

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the  Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Jenni,

Can you find time on the Mayor’s calendar for Eric and his staff to brief the Mayor on the cleanup actions for the General Chemical site? Preferably before July 6th, which is the start date of the project. Thanks.

Thatcher

Thatcher W. Kezer III

Chief Operating Officer

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street

Framingham MA 01702

508.532.5400

tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>

—–Original Message—–
From: Thatcher W. Kezer <tkezer@framinghamma.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, June 2, 2021 4:07 PM
To: Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@mass.gov>
Subject: Re: Translation assistance

CAUTION: This email originated from a sender outside of the  Commonwealth of Massachusetts mail system.  Do not click on links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Eric,

Got it. In the works.

Thatcher

Thatcher W. Kezer III

Chief Operating Officer

City of Framingham

150 Concord Street

Framingham MA 01702

508.532.5400

tkezer@framinghamma.gov<mailto:tkezer@framinghamma.gov>

On Jun 2, 2021, at 1:22 PM, Worrall, Eric (DEP) <eric.worrall@state.ma.us<mailto:eric.worrall@state.ma.us>> wrote:

Hi Thatcher,

Hope you’re doing well.  Thanks for your help in coordinating the upcoming site visit – will be great to start doing some cleanup in the next month!  Could I ask for your assistance again in translating the attached June update into Portuguese please.  Thanks, Eric

Eric Worrall

Regional Director

MassDEP

Northeast Region

205 B Lowell Street

Wilmington, MA 01887-2941

Ph: (978)694-3225

<FRAMINGHAM – Update on General Chemical Cleanup – June 2021 – FINAL.docx>

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