Johnson County’s EPA Regional Administrator Jim Macy told neighbors that the agency still needs access to 107 of the 156 homes surrounding the former Chemical Commodities Inc. site to complete its five‑year vapor‑intrusion review. The site, which operated from 1951 to 1989, was added to the federal Superfund list in 1994 after multiple fires, spills and leaks left hazardous levels of at least four known carcinogens in the soil and groundwater.

History of the contamination

During its 38‑year run, Chemical Commodities Inc. stored chemicals improperly, allowing them to seep into the surrounding environment. After the plant closed, the EPA removed most of the contaminated soil in 1991, but the agency’s later testing showed that vapors from the remaining pollutants continue to migrate into nearby houses.

Neighbors’ concerns

Long‑time residents Greg and Kelly Divine, who live directly across from the former plant, said the sight of the vacant lot has been an “eyesore for years and years.” They added that many homeowners are unaware that they live within a Superfund boundary. “How many of these people actually know that this is a Superfund site over here?” Divine asked.

EPA’s response

Macy emphasized the agency’s duty to protect human health and the environment, noting that without access to the homes, testing cannot be completed. “Our responsibility is to protect human health and the environment. And we can’t do that without getting access to these homes,” he said.

The EPA has posted a site map online so residents can determine whether their property falls inside the contamination boundary. A follow‑up community meeting is scheduled for Dec. 1, giving neighbors a chance to ask questions and learn more about the testing process.

Disclosure rules

When asked whether sellers must disclose the site’s history to prospective buyers, Macy said there is no legal requirement for disclosure in real‑estate transactions, and the agency has no automatic system to learn when affected properties change hands.

What’s next?

The agency plans to continue its vapor‑intrusion sampling once it secures entry to the remaining homes. Residents are encouraged to review the EPA’s map, attend the Dec. 1 meeting, and stay informed about any health‑risk findings that may emerge.

For more information, Olathe homeowners can contact the EPA regional office or visit the agency’s website.

Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.