But the Mervines aren't happy about that. We like it here. This is the nicest town in the region. And there is no reason for us to move. But DEP believes the remaining Centralians should move because the area is an unsafe place to live.
Dangerous sinkholes exist, with the potential for more subsidence at any moment.
And there are toxic fumes to contend with, as well as the heat and damage the fire has created. The state agency is serving as a liaison between Centralia residents and the federal government. The Mervines don't believe the government is looking out for their best interests or their safety in wanting them to move. They've recently hired a new attorney to try to help them win the battle to stay in their beloved town. The coal companies are probably pushing to get in here.