While one city councillor in Sarnia wants to see the fence removed from an area of Centennial Park that’s been enclosed for almost a year, he faces some stiff opposition.
“This is the people's park and the people want their park back,” says Coun. Dave Boushy.
The fence stretches around a large area of the park to keep the public out because asbestos was found contaminating the soil in parts of the park.
Sandra Kinart lost her husband to mesothelioma, which was caused by exposure to asbestos. She's frustrated to hear that some residents and Boushy would like to see parts of the fence taken down.
“Do I want my grandkids playing in here? No I don't. Do I want anyone's child playing in here? No I don't,” she says.
Kinart is not alone. Jean Simpson also lost her husband after he was exposed to asbestos. She also wants the fence to stay up until the park is properly cleaned.
“It only takes one thread of asbestos, one little particle to cause asbestosis or mesothelioma.”
The fence doesn’t just surround the playground, it also stretches around to the open space behind the playground, which is where all the summer festivals are held.
Boushy is frustrated with the whole process, saying the price tag for the fence alone has come in at $700,000 and the almost $10 million price tag to clean up the park is too much.
“Asbestos underground is not harmful. I think the fence should come down and declare the park as not harmful.”
But Boushy does believe the fence should remain around the playground until it is properly investigated.
The environment ministry, the medical officer of health and engineering staff from the city all believe the fence as it stands now should remain as is until the situation can be properly cleaned up.
Engineering staff will provide council with an updated report Monday night, with a suggestion the park be cleaned up in phases.
