Judge Approves Zeon Settlement for Rubbertown Emissions

A $1.5 million settlement between chemical company Zeon and residents who live near the company's Rubbertown plant was approved by a judge yesterday,despite significant community opposition.The agreement would pay everyone living within a mile of the plant up to $750. Those who live within 1-2 miles will be eligible to receive up to $100.Community activists opposed the settlement, saying a reduction on emissions and stricter restrictions on chemicals in the Rubbertown neighborhood would be more meaningful than the relatively small monetary reward. Everyone in the neighborhood that didn't opt out of the lawsuit will lose some rights to sue the company.The settlement will also give about $550,000 to nine elementary schools in west Louisville.