Comment Log Display

 May 23, 2006

Dear Air Resources Board Members,

	My name is Lynnette Watterson.  I am the current President of the
California Cleaners Association and I am the owner of a perc dry
cleaning establishment, Crystal Cleaning Center, in San Mateo
started by my mother, Violet Janks, in 1963.  We currently have
eight employees, and our total years of service is 86 years.  My
mother passed away last year at the age of 87 and one of our
former employees, who worked for us for 36 years and is now
retired, recently turned 84.  Several of our employees have had
children while in our employ, who are all healthy and thriving.   

Over the last many months, I have participated in several work
groups of the ARB by phone or in person.  I regularly participate
in the work group meetings of the Bay Area Air Quality Management
District.  Additionally, I attended the Rule 1421 hearings at
South Coast.  
I wish to commend the thoroughness of the ARB work group as they
painstakingly reviewed the volumes of information regarding the
ATCM Proposal.  Their recommendations appear to be rational.  They
have reviewed the issues from a very well-rounded perspective,
including the fiscal impact of potential changes to the
regulations for our industry.  In an industry that is
predominantly comprised of small “mom ‘n pop” businesses, the
fiscal impact of a mandated ban on perc would be devastating.   I
applaud their decision not to call for an outright ban on perc. 
The dry cleaning industry has dramatically reduced perc
consumption.  This reduction, coupled with new equipment
technologies, make continued use of perc a viable option.  
	While alternative solvents are being explored, their efficacy,
long-range effect on our population and/ or our environment are
yet to be determined.  The ARB workgroup’s assessment of the
“alternatives” was well thought out.  While wet-cleaning is a
natural adjunct to a dry cleaning operation, it cannot be
construed as a total replacement for dry cleaning.  Crucial is the
compliance of operators with rules governing business operations,
regardless of which solvent/method is being used.        
	I appreciate the opportunity to come before this body to express
by endorsement of the recommended changes to the ATCM, and wish to
state that I am proud to be part of an industry that “Keeps America
Beautiful!”

Sincerely,
Lynnette Watterson, Owner
Crystal Cleaning Center
San Mateo, CA
President, California Cleaners Association