Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan recently filed a suit against the owner of West Campus, Merie Huff, for failing to remove asbestos properly.

Madigan claims that Huff is guilty in his involvement with the asbestos removal process that happened at one of his properties.

Suit Claims Improper Removal

Madigan is accusing Huff and his tenant, Ben Slotky, of failing to hire an asbestos contractor to remove an asbestos-laden floor during renovations.

The materials from the removal were reportedly removed and placed in unsealed garbage bags.

Renovations Cause Controversy

Huff and developer, Tom Tincher were planning on converting West Campus into Gateway Center, which will feature small businesses, a Bible college, and theater.

Tincher stated that the many entities are involved in the West Campus project and he has acknowledged the presence of asbestos on the property.

Huff allegedly did not thoroughly inspect the building for asbestos before the renovations began, as is required by the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants regulations.

Removal Poses Danger to Community

The suit also accuses the defendants of not following laws regarding asbestos removal in order to avoid contamination.

“Because there is no known safe exposure level to asbestos, this careless and improper handling of a known carcinogen created a very serious danger to public health,” explains Madigan.

(Source: Pekin Times)

Have you been wrongfully exposed to asbestos? If so, please contact us to speak with someone about the resources available to you.