CITGO Will Start Real-Time Monitoring, Hold More Community Meetings

LEMONT, IL — After residents raised concerns about air quality and emissions surrounding the CITGO Lemont Refinery, CITGO has agreed to initiate real-time monitoring and to work with the Village on an improved notification system, according to a news release from the Village.

The Village said Mayor John Egofske recently met with Illinois State Senator John Curran and CITGO Lemont Refinery Vice President and General Manager Jim Cristman to ensure community voices are heard and appropriate actions are taken.

“Air quality and public health are top priorities for the Village of Lemont,” said Mayor Egofske.
“We appreciate CITGO’s willingness to engage with our community and take steps that reflect our
shared commitment to the well-being of Lemont residents.”

Working together to address resident concerns, CITGO has agreed to initiate real time monitoring and to work with the Village of Lemont on an improved notification system.

"While the refinery’s existing air monitoring program overseen by Federal and Illinois EPA regulations consistently shows emissions in compliance with regulatory requirements and below federal action levels, the Village will continue to work closely with CITGO and regulatory agencies to ensure operations remain protective of public health," a news release states.

“The refinery has been part of the local community for 99 years,” said Jim Cristman, CITGO
Lemont Refinery Vice President and General Manager, whose relatives have been Lemont
residents for more than 50 years. “As a good neighbor, our operations are guided by our underlying
values — we live and work here too. CITGO is committed to protecting our communities, the
environment, and our workers.”

CITGO is also holding a series of community meetings in December and January. These meetings will provide residents with an opportunity to share feedback and learn more about ongoing efforts to promote air quality.

Meetings will be held on at 6 p.m. Dec. 16, 1 p.m. Dec. 17 and 6 p.m. Jan. 6, all at Big Run Golf Club. Attendees may select one session to attend. To register, contact Jen Hannon jhanno1@citgo.com.