FeedsCity of Westland focuses on park dialogue
A task force has been formed to keep Westland residents informed of the status of the investigation into toxic waste at Central City Park.
The park was shut down in early January when heightened lead levels were found in some areas. Testing has been under way for both lead and a variety of other toxins that may have been dumped on the property when Wayne County used it as a waste disposal site.
The task force, assembled by Westland Mayor Bill Wild, was given the job finding ways to notify residents of the situation and provide them with up-to-date information.
“While many residents are aware of the park’s closing, many still have questions and concerns,” said Wild. “It is imperative that all residents have access to updated information as it becomes available.”
Wild said the group recommended four ways to make it easier for residents to access up-to-date information. The first, a toll-free information line, has already been put into service. By dialing (888)7CC-PARK—or (888) 722-7275—residents will be able to access information on the latest developments for the park. As of Tuesday, the system included information on the tests requested by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), including a geophysical study to search for buried metal items, a geo-probe study designed to extract soil for testing for a wide-range of contaminants, and a methane gas study.
The group is also working on placing information kiosks at city buildings, including city hall, the Bailey Recreation Center, the Friendship Center, the Faust Public Library, and at the Dorsey Center, that will offer information handouts on lead and any other contaminants found.
Westland City Council President Pro Tem and task force liaison Cheryl Graunstadt said she has already contacted both Wayne County and the MDEQ to request updated handouts.
“We should have these updated fact sheets from the agencies by the end of the month so they are something you can pick up,” she said.
There will also be informational seminars for Westland senior citizens, the details of which are still being discussed, and information will be included in the next edition of the Inside Westland newsletter.
Graunstadt urged residents to contact the task force, the mayor’s office, or any of the council members if they have suggestions, concerns, questions, or would like additional information.
