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Testing clears Franklin schools to open for class, but not everyone is convinced its safe

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FRANKLIN, Ind. -- Hundreds of people attended a district meeting Friday night to hear about the results that found two Franklin schools are safe to open for classes next week following environmental concerns.

The concerns stem from the old Ampehnol factory grounds on the city’s east side. The grounds are still contaminated, and years from being fully cleaned up.

Out of caution, Franklin Community Schools tested two nearby elementary schools. Results this week cleared them to start classes next week.

The district superintendent told RTV6 he will talk with state regulators to determine whether to expand tests to schools far from the Amphenol site.

IDEM Commissioner Bruno Pigott said the agency is continuing cleanup activity at the site and will also install an air monitor. IDEM says the air monitor will help them keep an eye on the situation in Franklin.

The advocacy group If This Was Your Child believes the Amphenol site is to blame for a significant number of pediatric cancer cases in the area. They’re convinced more needs to be done.

“Moving forward we will meet, we will do what we do to keep people accountable,” said Kari Rhinehart, an environmental advocate. “It’s how we got this far. No, we’re not giving up.”

State regulators say they’re open to more testing and investigation if necessary.

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