Elmira Heights, (NY) - "I like to grow grass. It has taken me actually 3 probably 3 and a half years to actually get a good head of grass."For 12 years, James Barnes has lived on 17th street, near the former Purolator Plant in Elmira Heights.
The environmental protection agency has been monitoring the area for years.
Officials say the plant didn't properly dispose of waste from 1940s through 1978, making it contaminated with a chemical compound called trichloroethylene or (TCE).
They say if the chemical gets into the groundwater, it can move under ground and leak fumes into people's homes.
Several years ago, Purolator agreed to install a pump and treat system on their land to clean the ground water.
But now a law firm based in New York City wants to help.
You might have seen Weitz & Luxenberg, P.C.'s advertisement in one of our local newspapers.
Hadley L. Matarazzo an attorney with Weitz & Luxenberg, P.C. said, "Elmira residents contacted us because they were concerned about potential health problems, property values and other issues resulting from vapors intruding into their home in Elmira Heights."
The EPA has done sampling of 100 near by homes.
They've installed 18 of these vapor remediation systems and Barnes has one of them.
"It's pumping chemicals in the soil out of the basement, whatever keeps my family safe is important."
Barnes says he's not looking to file a lawsuit but will attend the meeting.
The Purolator plant is now owned by motor components.
The general manager says he is not able to comment on Thursday's meeting because this is a legal matter.
However, the E.P.A. says Purolator has been very cooperative with the clean-up efforts.
If you would like to learn more, head to the American Legion in Elmira Heights at 7p.m. on Thursday.
Attorneys with the Weitz and Luxenberg law firm will host an informational meeting and address your concerns.
The Elmira Heights mayor plans to hold a separate meeting for neighbors with members of the E.P.A.
He says its so neighbors can get up to date and accurate information.
That meeting takes place Thursday November 19th at 6p.m.
