Law students to evaluate former toxic dump site in Dunbar

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FORT MYERS, Fla. Law students from the University of Miami took action Friday morning for those living near a former toxic dump site in Dunbar.

The students spoke to the community about concerning health issues regarding potential arsenic exposure.

The chemical was found 10 years ago in the soil on the city-owned land between Henderson and Midway Avenues, as well as the south side of Jeffcott Street.

“The harm might be physical harm, but it also could be harm to property values,” said Anthony Alfieri, a University of Miami law professor.

Long-term exposure to arsenic can cause cancers of the bladder and lungs, the World Health Organization said.

The city bought the land in 1962, before homes started going up around it, and used the site as a dumping ground until sometime in the 1980s, even after homes were built.

Recent water tests showed the levels of arsenic are not a risk to the Dunbar community, the Department of Environmental Protection said, but the students may plan to test the sludge themselves based on their findings.

Some nearby residents only recently discovered the homes they grew up in are located near an old dumping ground.

“People in the city of Fort Myers who are in elected positions and appointed positions who knew about this didn’t do anything,” local activist Anthony Thomas said. 

A group of residents will voice their concerns at a City Council meeting Monday at 4:30 p.m.

WINK News reporter Kristin Sanchez discussed what to expect Friday live on Facebook:

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