The Town of Niagara, N.Y., is grappling with a serious environmental issue as elevated levels of radiation have been detected in residential areas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken decisive action by relocating four families whose properties are contaminated. This development has raised significant concerns among residents and environmental advocates alike.

The situation came to light when property owners received letters from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the EPA notifying them of potential radioactive waste buried in their yards. The contamination has been found both outside and inside some homes, adding to the urgency of the situation.

Community Reactions and Public Meetings

Residents of the Town of Niagara have expressed frustration and concern over the recent findings. A public meeting held on Monday saw over 200 community members from Niagara and Erie counties engaging with environmental agencies. The meeting, however, was marked by heated exchanges and interjections from the audience, reflecting the community’s growing unease.

One resident’s outburst, “You all live in non-chemical environments!” as he walked out, underscored the tension and mistrust that has been building among the affected residents. The meeting highlighted the need for transparent communication and swift action from the environmental agencies involved.

Historical Context and Ongoing Investigations

The current investigations have revealed that records of potential contamination date back to the 1980s. DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton explained that the recent surveys were initiated because the records from the ’80s did not align with what was observed during remediation efforts. “We wanted to proactively see if something was out there,” Lefton stated, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation.

The EPA and DEC have been conducting multiple rounds of surveys since 2026 to assess the extent of the contamination. These efforts have led to the identification of 120 homes in western Niagara county that may be affected. The agencies are now focused on ensuring that all residents are aware of the potential risks and are taking necessary precautions.

Resident Concerns and Demands

Residents like Ron Kraft have been vocal about their concerns, particularly regarding the language of the property access agreement and the reimbursement process for voluntary relocations. Kraft emphasized the importance of getting all residents to sign the improved agreement to ensure they are aware of the potential risks. “We need to get all these forms out to these people,” he said, highlighting the community’s desire for transparency and accountability.

The affected residents are demanding that Governor Kathy Hochul designate their entire neighborhood as a hazardous waste site. This designation would facilitate more comprehensive and targeted remediation efforts, addressing the community’s health and safety concerns.

As the investigation continues, the EPA and DEC are working closely with the Department of Health to monitor the situation and provide support to the affected families. The agencies are committed to ensuring that the residents of the Town of Niagara are protected and that the contamination is effectively managed.