Bitterness Over Tar Creek Buyout

There is bitterness over a buyout.  Because of environmental risks, the people of Picher in Ottawa County are being paid to move out of town.  But, as the News On 6's Chris Wright reports, many residents say they are not being given enough money for their homes.

The Environmental Protection Agency will pay an estimated $42 million to buy out everyone in Picher.  And, some people say that money is not being distributed fairly.

The population is already dwindling in Picher.  Plagued with lead-related environmental problems, the government is doling out millions to get everyone out.  Hundreds have already left the old mining community.  Those who are still in the process of being bought out, many of whom attended a meeting at the Picher Housing Authority Saturday, say they are not being offered enough to move.

"I was accused of being greedy.  I'm not greedy, I'm needy.  It takes that money to allow me to move," said RoseAnn Jones of Picher.

Residents contend their being low-balled.  They say because of their position, they have little leverage, and are unable to negotiate with Cinnabar of Tulsa, the company in charge of the appraisal.

"They've been bullies.  They have said it's the last time you'll ever get an offer, take it or leave it," said Picher's Aletha Redden.

Aletha Redden hopes speaking out will change what she says in an injustice.  She urged residents to do the same, telling them to write their representatives, and tell them about the bids.

"I'm still going to stand up for the rest of everyone that's here in town because of the unfairness and the inequalities that have been dished out over the last few months," said Picher's Aletha Redden.

Some people say they have finally accepted that Picher as they know it will cease to exist.  They just want to be paid a fair price to leave their hometown behind.

"That's all I want.  I don't begrudge anyone of what they got.  But, I would like to be treated equal," said RoseAnn Jones of Picher.

People at the meeting say besides writing letters, they may even travel to Oklahoma City to protest to lawmakers about the appraisals.

Low or not, residents have been accepting the bids.  According to Governor Henry, 95% of the residents of Picher have accepted the offers.