WICHITA, Kansas, July 22, 2008 – A methane leak at an old landfill in south Wichita could cost the city at least $2 million dollars to fix.

Council members approved some of that money today, but the decision did cause some controversy.

The McFauls have been living on edge since late June when high levels of methane gas were detected near their home, forcing them to evacuate. Since then, more methane has been detected in two separate areas.

"It’s about time, I mean I'm glad it's being done finally,” said Bert McFaul who lives near the landfill.

Tuesday morning, city council members voted to pay $500,000 in emergency repairs. Detectors have already been placed around the affected homes and in the landfill itself. But more money will be needed to fix the problems permanently. Discussions on council got a little uncomfortable when member Jim Skelton asked about plans to develop the landfill.

"The point is we should have already done this mayor, we should have already done this homework ahead of time," Skelton said. "Do you see that? That's why I am upset mayor."

About 190 acres of that  land was supposed to be built into a multi-use city park, but those plans are now on hold because of the methane concerns.

The McFauls just want the problem cleared up, especially since Kayla is six months pregnant.

"Neighbors have told us that this has happened once or twice before,” McFaul said. “So it is well overdue, it should have been done a long time ago."