Hanes-Lowrance community residents still wait on action
Photo by Tevin Stinson
Mayor Pro Tempore Vivian Burke speaks to residents during a meeting held at Hanes Hosiery Recreation Center to address groundwater contamination in the area.
BY TEVIN STINSON
THE CHRONICLE
After waiting more than two months for an update on the groundwater contamination in their neighborhood, residents who live in the Hanes-Lowrance neighborhood will have to wait at least another month before they know if they are in danger in their own homes.
During a meeting held at Hanes Hosiery Recreation Center, Director of Storm Water and Erosions Keith Huff said the results from the groundwater testing should be available by April 12.
A number of residents said that while they are waiting on test results, they could be exposing themselves to dangerous chemicals. Brenda Williams said she hasn’t been told any-thing about the testing or the possibility that she could be in danger.
“This is eerie to the Flint, Michigan situation,” continued Williams, “as in the lack of transparency and communication.”
“I know there are a number of people in this community just like me who don’t know what’s going on. It shouldn’t be this hard to get information.”
The city is testing for two chemicals that have been linked to cancer, tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and trochlorothylene (TCE). While residents do not consume the contaminated groundwater, vapors from the chemicals can work their way through the soil and into the air.
According to records, 22 homes in the area have been tested for the cancer causing chemicals.
While the city designated only 19 homes for testing, three voluntarily participated. A presentation shown during the meeting noted 29 indoor air samples have been collected, as well as eight sub-slab samples.
Huff mentioned that while testing has halted, they are still monitoring water wells in the area on a regular basis. He mentioned anyone who is concerned and would like to have their home tested can still do so.
“We want to make sure everyone is safe,” Huff said.
Another meeting to dis-cuss the test results has been scheduled for 6 p.m. on April 22 at Hanes Hosiery Recreation Center, 501 Reynolds Blvd.
For more information on the testing that was conducted and to have your home or property tested, visit the city’s official web-site, www.cityofws.org and click on storm-water-erosion-control listed under departments.
