Which roughly translated means they'll do what they want. A lot like "trials" before public hangings in the 1500s. The EPA and it's little bratty sister, the D.E.C. banned open burning in the state of NY. Usually they schedule the "public comment" sessions when everyone is at work, then do as they please regardless. It's merely a formality before they drop the hammer.
Yay! Your persistance paid off.