CALGARY – The overwhelming smell of gasoline has become unbearable for a local mother, concerned for her children’s safety.
The Gas Plus located on Bowness Road has leaked around 9,000 litres of gasoline into the ground since May, affecting surrounding homes.
The company has recently been slapped with an environmental protection order for failing to properly clean up the leak. The company says the delay has been due to issues with the City.
The five members of the Hillier family, who live near the gas station, took the advice of Alberta Health Services and moved into a hotel for the time being.
Air quality tests are underway on some homes in the area, including the Hilliers.
Gas Plus has agreed to pay for their hotel and any moving costs and rent deposits to relocate the family; however, moving is something they say they’re not prepared to do.
“It’s upsetting, that’s our home,” says Melinda Hillier. “They just want us to up and leave. It’s not as easy and up and leaving; we’re really greatful to be here in the hotel, but its Christmas and we’re not home for Christmas.”
Melinda says she doesn’t know when or if it will be safe to return to their home in Bowness.
Despite potential health risks, Melinda’s next door neighbour has chosen to stay put.
“They have children and feel safer somewhere else,” says Brian Parsons. “We don’t have any kids here so that aspect doesn’t bother us.”
AHS isn’t expecting results from the air quality tests until at least next week.
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