The high cost of meth lab cleanup

The growing problem of meth labs in Green Country is costing taxpayers and homeowners a lot of money. <br><br>The city of Tulsa is responsible for the initial chemical removal and disposal. That costs

Tuesday, November 19th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The growing problem of meth labs in Green Country is costing taxpayers and homeowners a lot of money.

The city of Tulsa is responsible for the initial chemical removal and disposal. That costs taxpayers an average of $3,000 per lab. When you factor in overtime and equipment costs, the price goes even higher.

More of these labs are popping up in rental houses or motel rooms. The cost to clean up residue and make the home livable again goes to the property owner. Sgt Sam McCullough, Tulsa Drug Unit: "We had one a few weeks ago where the acid burned right through the carpet and the motel owners often foot the bill because the people who do it are long gone."

Burggraf Restoration cleans up after fires, mold and methamphetamine. They use special vacuums and air scrubbers before cleaning and re-painting walls and ceilings.