Picher needs more information before deciding on move

(Picher-AP) -- A new survey indicates residents in the Picher-Cardin area want more information before deciding whether to move their town.

A 40-square-mile area within the Tar Creek Superfund site contains 300 miles of tunnels where lead was mined for about 100 years until 1960. Studies show lead is contaminating the land and water of Ottawa County and poses health risks.

The door-to-door survey was conducted after months of public meetings. Results indicate that 450 households, or 80 percent of those responding, want to know more about the proposal. Another 113 were opposed.

Twenty-five local business owners have sent a letter to Governor Keating offering their support for further study into the feasibility of moving the towns.