García, Local Elected Officials Urge Illinois EPA to Perform a Comprehensive Public Assessment of the Koppers Fire

June 1, 2026 Press Release CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy“ García, joined by State Senators Celina Villanueva and Javier Loera Cervantes, State Representatives Aarón Ortiz and Edgar Gonzalez Jr., Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner Eira L. Corral Sepúlveda and Alderperson Michael D. Rodriguez sent a letter today to Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Director James Jennings requesting a transparent and comprehensive public assessment of the Koppers Inc. fire that occurred on May 27, 2026 in Cicero, IL. The incident has caused significant concerns among residents, local officials, first responders, and businesses regarding potential environmental contamination, public health impacts, emergency response procedures, and regulatory compliance of the company. The letter urges the Illinois EPA to engage directly with the community through public meetings, briefings, and opportunities for residents to ask questions and receive clear answers in multiple languages. The officials emphasize that the “health and safety of our community depends on a full and ongoing assessment of this incident. In addition to an immediate investigation, residents should be made aware of any available resources or support services if contaminants are found on their property as a result of this incident.” The request includes information about the cause of the fire; chemicals involved; air, soil and water monitoring data before, during and after the fire; any hazardous substances released and their impact on public health; actions taken by Koppers Inc, as well as enforcement actions under consideration or already initiated. The letter also requests that the Illinois EPA assess the facility’s compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations and asks for recommendations to prevent future incidents, as well as plans for the closure of the Kopper Inc plant previously scheduled for end of the year. “As elected representatives, we have a responsibility to ensure that government agencies and regulated facilities are held accountable and that the public receives complete and accurate information,” concludes the letter. A copy of the full letter can be found on this link. # # # Issues : Chicago Environment