The city of Oakridge has been fined $9,600 because it improperly handled the demolition of mobile homes and other structures on land the city purchased on the north side of Oakridge. The buildings contained asbestos, and the asbestos was not properly removed before the demolition. The city relied on the seller’s representation that the property contained no hazardous materials. An attorney for Oakridge residents attended a city council meeting shortly after the demolition to raise concerns about asbestos-containing debris moved from the site to a burn pile on city property. The total fine assessed against the city includes assessments for failing to conduct an asbestos survey before demolition, allowing uncertified contractors to remove the asbestos, and improper storage of asbestos-containing material. The city must pay or appeal the fine by October 5. Officials report that the city was very responsible in handling the problem and properly disposing of the asbestos-containing debris once it had been brought to the city’s attention.
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