Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a preliminary injunction was obtained in the case against Go Glen Ellyn Two LLC, Burdi Custom Builders Inc., and Concrete Construction Company. The lawsuit involves allegations of improper asbestos handling during the demolition of the America's Best Value Inn in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.
The court order requires the defendants to carry out an approved asbestos remediation plan. Within 21 days, they must provide a detailed report of asbestos removal and demolition activities, and a written agreement to adhere to future demolition regulations.
“Any construction project that includes removing materials containing asbestos must follow the law to ensure proper remediation, which is critical to protect both the health of workers and the general public," stated Attorney General Raoul. "The agreed injunction will ensure safety protocols are in place with oversight by the Illinois EPA while asbestos remediation continues at the former hotel.”
Earlier in the month, a lawsuit was filed based on claims of unsafe demolition practices at the former inn, located at 677 Roosevelt Road. The allegations assert that work began without remediation of asbestos-laden materials such as floor tiles and ducts. Exposure to asbestos fibers is hazardous and can lead to serious illnesses like lung cancer and mesothelioma.
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) referred the case to Raoul following a citizen's complaint about improper asbestos removal. “Illinois EPA received a citizen complaint of a building demolition in Glen Ellyn that included alleged improper asbestos removal and fugitive dust, which prompted Illinois EPA to request work be halted until an inspection could be completed," noted Illinois EPA Acting Director James Jennings. "The Agency’s inspection identified numerous violations."
During the inspection, significant debris containing asbestos was found mixed with other materials, exposed to the environment. The site’s location on a busy suburban road raised additional concerns for public health.
The case is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Kevin Garstka and Senior Assistant Attorney General Nancy Tikalsky. Raoul's Environmental Enforcement Division has a record of enforcing civil environmental laws and overseeing remediation projects. Residents can report environmental concerns to Raoul’s office via ej@ilag.gov.