CENTRALIA — The seven people still living in a Columbia County community devastated by an underground mine fire will be able to stay.
State and local officials say an agreement was reached Tuesday with the remaining residents of Centralia allowing them to stay in their homes until they die.
Once they pass away, the rights of their properties will be taken through eminent domain.
The residents will also receive a total of $218,000 as part of the settlement.
It was in May 1962 when fire at a strip-mine pit spread to coal mines underground.
Years later, many people living in Centralia agreed to a government buyout.
