Earlier this month, a resident came to the Borough of Wrangell asking for assistance with her medical bills. After a closed door session, the Wrangell assembly declined her request.

Lavern Lawrence said she and her husband are experiencing health problems that her doctors cannot account for. She said doctors are recommending she get a toxicology report, to see if living near the old Byford Junkyard is behind her problems.

Lawrence said the cost for the testing is $1600 for both her and her husband. Lawrence lives on 4.2 mile Zimovia Highway, near the junkyard site. She did not say what her health issues are.

Borough Manager Lisa Von Bargen said the assembly dismissed Lawrence’s request. Von Bargen had no further comment.