Piney Point sale hits hurdle
By Josh Salman
TAMPA – Air Products and Chemicals Inc. has postponed its negotiations to buy portions of Piney Point from troubled HRK Holdings LLC -- leaving 250 jobs and the threat of toxic runoff on the line.
In federal bankruptcy court Wednesday, Air Products representatives said their company won't close on the deal until the Florida Department of Environmental Protection provides written assurance clearing them of any future obligations at the site.
The state, already facing a $15.8 million bill for environmental cleanup at Piney Point, has refused to forgo that right.
Judge K. Rodney May gave final approval for the Air Products sale Wednesday at federal bankruptcy court in downtown Tampa.
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