Historic Illinois post office in urgent need of carcinogenic mold, mesothelioma-causing asbestos removal

The 92-year-old post office in Charleston, Illinois is known to contain mold and carcinogenic asbestos. Asbestos exposure has been conclusively linked to the development of mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer.

Mesothelioma affects less than 3,000 Americans each year, with the disease typically lurking dormant in the body for up to fifty years before an individual begins to suffer from mesothelioma symptoms. Yet despite these flaws, the Charleston Historic Preservation Commission wants to do everything in its power to save the historic landmark. The commission has just announced its intention to nominate the post office for the annual endangered list compiled by Landmarks Illinois, a nonprofit historic preservation group.

Elisa Roberts, a member of the commission, said that if it is put on the endangered list, it is more likely that a buyer will become interested. “We just want to explore all options before there is something that is irreversible that happens,” Roberts said.

Charleston Postmaster Butch Hackett said the U.S. Postal Service has spent approximately $300,000 on renovations to the roof, windows and other areas of the post office over the last 12 months. Still, mold and asbestos issues have yet to be addressed. There is also a problem with the roof and with water damage in the basement. “There is a lot of money that needs to be put into it,” said Hackett.

Nora Pat Small, a member of the local historic commission, added, “That federal incomes tax credit would be a nice incentive for someone,” referring to the benefits a prospective buyer might receive.