NewsLocal News

Actions

MI lawmakers say more assistance is needed to protect community from toxic waste

Posted
and last updated

LANSING, Mich. — Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow, along with Representatives Andy Levin and Paul Mitchell said Michigan needs more assistance to remove toxic chemicals that are leaking from a condemned building.

Gray Sayers, 77, whose business Electro-Plating Services is responsible for the green ooze spill along I-696, is currently serving time in a federal prison for storing the hazardous materials.

The Environmental Protection Agency says a clean-up job is underway. Michigan lawmakers asked the EPA to also come up with long term solutions that will prevent the toxic waste from spreading.

EPA officials said they believe the substance is contaminated ground water following a cleanup at the nearby electroplating business.

“EPA’s mission is to protect human health and the environment, and ensuring Michiganders’ access to clean and safe air and water is our shared priority,” the combined lawmakers said in a statement. “Unfortunately, we in Michigan know too well the consequences of government inaction when it comes to protecting drinking water.”

In the area near the contamination site are surrounding homes, businesses, and community centers.

On Monday, Dec. 30, Governor Whitmer also said she would be taking action against the company and man responsible for the pollution.

The City of Madison Heights is taking Sayers to court. The city wants Sayers to demolish the condemned building that has been leaking the ooze onto the highway.

They said if Sayer doesn't comply they will do it themselves.

Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.

Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.

Download our free app for Appleand Android

and

Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.

Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.

Follow us on Twitter

Like us on Facebook