In response, the council could use zoning laws to address the issue, Shelbyville’s city manager said.

The group is asking the city for the elimination of any hazardous chemicals that could migrate off the property if there was “a catastrophic leak that could cause serious bodily harm or death.”

“We request the potential purchaser of the property inform the city of the type and amount of chemicals used in the company production/process,” said Sarah Hunt, spokesperson for the group.

The director of Homeland Security would then contact the state to analyze and provide information about the chemicals, Hunt said. “Information would be provided to the council in order for them to make an informed decision regarding the protection and health of the citizens in this area.”

Hunt said that the council was well aware of the history of the aluminum recycling plant, most recently known as Aleris, which ceased operations in June. She pointed out that prior to the plant’s closing, 15 tons of chlorine were allowed on the property, but there are no chemicals there now.