By Andy Robins, Michigan Public Radio Network
KALAMAZOO, MI –
Some people affected by the Kalamazoo River oil spill have a potential buyer for their homes, the pipeline company responsible for the disaster.
Enbridge Energy Partners CEO Patrick Daniel says he's heard from residents concerned about falling property values. Because of that, Daniel says the company has offered to buy homes that were on the market before the spill.
"We will buy those homes at full list price," he explains. "For people who own homes within the same area who are concerned with regard to reduction of value or simply want to move as a result of tghe spill. we will provide them with an option to purchase their homes at the appraised value before the spill."
Daniel is the offer is good for homeowners who live with 200 feet of the affected area of the Kalamazoo River. Residents in the "Red Zone" designated by local officials because of chemical fumes are also eligible.
The company says about 200 homes could be affected, although Daniel says he doesn't expect many takers. Enbridge faces a multi-million-dollar class-action lawsuit over the spill. But Daniel said Tuesday that no one has to go to court in order to have Enbridge compensate them for "legitimate" claims.