[StBernard] Murphy Oil Information Removed From sbpg.net

[Westley Annis]

Aside from your indirect ties to Murphy, could you explain why they have
you sign a waiver upon reaching a settlement that holds them harmless in
the event that the property is found to STILL be contaminated even
though it has been restored?  They want nothing to do with the
contingent liability portion of their business.  If the property is
later deemed contaminated then you are responsible as the owner or
former owner for mitigating (cleaning) that property up.  Do you think
that any settlement that Murphy would give you at say, even $20 per sq.
ft. for your home would be enough to offset the cost of this type of
cleanup?

Just wondering,
			JIM



-----Original Message-----

Craig:
 
When I read your communication I immediately had the same thoughts
Westley
has expressed.  I have found Murphy to be extremely cooperative, and
their
president seems very committed to resolving the issues in the most
expedient, reasonable matter possible, which benefits us all. 
 
On the other hand, my first thought was that this was yeat another case
of
the attorneys looking to booster their cause and make a windfall off of
Murphy, was tossing a few coins to the class action participants.  After
all, why would anyone go to court to attempt to obtain a restraining
order
to stop Murphy from talking to parish residents that wanted to talk to
them
about a settlement. 
 
Many of my friends and neigbors work for either Murphy or Mobil, and
both
companies generate significant tax revenue for the parish.  Once the
attorney's succeed in putting them out of business in St. Bernard, are
they
prepared to make up the budget shortfall?  I doubt it. 

John Richardson