The Wendel Report: Real Estate & Environmental, Winter 2009

Articles
 

• "Regulatory Update: The Construction Industry Comes Back to Face a New Storm Water Permit September 2009"
  The recently adopted Construction Storm Water Permit adopts a new regulatory approach that raises significant compliance and legal issues. by Wendy L. Manley
   
• "The Greening of Chemistry: California's New Initiative"
  The “Green Chemistry” Initiative could change the way manufacturers of products do business in California. by Wendy L. Manley
   
• "Climate Change Corner: Legislative and Regulatory Updates, Analysis and Comment"
  This issue discusses the likelihood of national climate change legislation and provides an update on the BAAQMD’s CEQA thresholds of significance. by Jonathan W. Redding and Bruce S. Flushman
   
• "A Future for Stigma Damages"
  A federal district court opinion appears to permit proof of stigma damages, contrary to what was thought to be settled California law. by Alexandra L. Foote
   
• "What Lurks Below??  Possible CERCLA Liability"
  Federal district court holds municipality potentially liable under CERCLA for ownership of a sewer pipe. by Bruce S. Flushman
   
• "Title Due Diligence: What You Need to Know When Evaluating Distressed Properties"
  Understanding some basic title insurance terms and title issues will assist the real estate investor in the due diligence process. co-authored by Daniel B. Myers
   
• "Kids Bite Back: The Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act Has Sharp Teeth"
  A new safety law targeting children’s toys and products, the Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act, expands the authority of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and mandates reductions in chemical use in these products. by Chris K. Noma and Beth Koh

Events

• New Requirements for Construction Site Storm Runoff: Retooling for Compliance
  Date: November 11, 2009
  Location: Oakland, CA
  This program will discuss the legal and technical perspectives of California’s recently adopted general permit for construction sites. It will examine the new requirements, identify compliance pitfalls and offer strategies for achieving and maintaining compliance. 

• Climate Change Update
  Date: December 9, 2009 
  Location: Oakland, CA 
  This program will feature speakers from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and BAAQMD. They will discuss the status and substance of Federal energy and climate change regulation, SB 375 implementation and new BAAQMD initiatives.