Holda Responds to Asbestos Claims

KILGORE — Kilgore College President Dr. Bill Holda is responding to asbestos-related claims about the college. Holda cited allegations reported by local media “that some Kilgore College facilities are not safe, that asbestos has been removed improperly and that this removal has been covered up by the college.” Holda says, “I have no evidence from any source that would corroborate any of these allegations. Neither Dalton Smith, KC’s Coordinator of Physical Plant nor any federal investigators have contacted me with specific allegations nor details.”

In a statement, Holda continues, “The issues divide into two categories: (1) assuring that the facilities alleged to be unsafe are actually safe, and (2) investigating and resolving the allegations and the contexts in which various comments were made. We should have the written reports to satisfy the first category by the end of the first week in December and the second item will take more time.”

Later in the statement, Holda adds, “To this point, no one has provided hard evidence that any inappropriate abatement or disposal of asbestos has occurred. Without context and without knowing what materials were being discussed, it is difficult to jump to the conclusion that anyone has directed so-called illegal activity. I look forward to discovering the proof behind the allegations.” KTBB will continue to update this story as more information is made available.