Published: January 29, 2007 10:31 am      

South Clinton residents explain concerns

We, the neighbors of Archer Daniels Midland property, have many concerns regarding the rezoning and construction now taking place in South Clinton.

Regarding the potential closure of South 4th Street... I think some assurances are in order from the City of Clinton! We are not second-class citizens; do not treat us as such. How will emergency vehicles get to us as needed? How will my street be plowed? How long will it take me to get out of my neighborhood...to get to work, to shop, to go to doctor appointments, and more?

What effect will this closure have on the access to South Clinton?

Regarding the continued construction taking place in South Clinton...has anyone considered the health issues now facing the residents? According to the American College of Allergists, as many as 50 percent of all illnesses are caused or aggravated by air pollution. The air quality in our neighborhood is going downhill quickly, what is the dust particle ratio now, does anyone know? Is this being monitored? This dust is invading our homes! We are not safe even indoors!

Contaminants in our homes’ air can cause dizziness, headaches and nausea, plus aggravate allergies and asthma. Small, invisible contaminants pose the greatest threat because they can be inhaled deep into the lungs and move through the bloodstream.

People most at risk from breathing particle pollution are children, the elderly and people with respiratory or heart disease. This includes a great percentage of the remaining South Clinton residents! Healthy people can be affected as well.

Effects of breathing particle pollution include breathing difficulties, respiratory pain, diminished lung function, weakened immune systems, increased hospitalization, increased absenteeism at school and work, increased severity of acute bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and emphysema, heart attacks and stroke and premature death (one to eight years earlier on average).

Significant medical expenses are being incurred daily by the South Clinton residents. The number of new and aggravated illnesses is staggering, in my opinion! And also we must consider the children! As the homes were demolished, I fear asbestos was not contained as it should have been!

Significant exposure to any type of asbestos will increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis and more. Diseases from asbestos exposure take a long time to develop.

Most cases of lung cancer or asbestosis occur 15 or more years after initial exposure. The time between diagnosis and mesothelioma versus initial exposure commonly has been 30 years or more. Are my grandchildren doomed to die a slow and painful death in their 40s?

I think it is time for the City of Clinton to step up and take responsibility for these questions. We want answers, no more lies and no more half-truths. It is past due for you to protect the citizens who elected you to office.