DEC, EPA conducting radiation tests in Southtowns

Buffalo, NY (WBEN) A month after testing began in Niagara County, testing is underway in parts of Erie County.

"We now know that those assessments are now coming to Erie County, with screenings having been performed in Grand Island, as well as will begin in Erie County's Southtowns," says Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. He says at this point, none of the screenings that have been performed in Erie County are troublesome.

DEC and EPA agents are set to contact property owners in Aurora, Boston, Brant, Concord, Eden, Evans, Hamburg, Marilla and Orchard Park to seek permission to go onto properties to test for radiation.

State Senator Pat Gallivan says he's also been informed by the EPA and DEC. "I would hope that the residents who are contacted by the DEC and the EPA cooperate with them for their own satisfaction," says Gallivan.

So far, Gallivan says he hasn't heard from residents. "I anticipate there will be many people will raise questions, and for good reason, of course. When you're talking about your home, your property, your family, you want to you want to be sure that things are safe, that you can live there safely, and and I hope that this process is something that will will help towards that end," says Gallivan.

Gallivan notes there is no timetable on when testing will be complete. Gallivan co-sponsors legislation that would require radioactive waste to be considered hazardous waste under the New York State Hazardous Waste Superfund program. Current law prohibits funds from the program from being used to address radiological contamination.

Assemblymember Dave DiPietro says he is planning a series of town halls as he anticipates hearing more from residents in the coming days and weeks.

Residents who have questions about radiological assessments in Erie and Niagara County are encouraged to call 518-712-8279, a dedicated phone line monitored by DEC. Information is also available at www.on.ny.gov/NECRA.