NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Emotional testimony was heard Tuesday from Roane County residents regarding December's Tennessee Valley Authority coal ash spill.

Community members spoke before the Tennessee State House Environment Committee, talking about the long-term health impacts of the coal ash, the community's safety, effects on wildlife and the economic impacts on Roane County.

Federal officials reported in January that arsenic levels of more than 100 times the acceptable amount were found in a river near the spill. Samples taken near the Kingston water treatment plant, which is upstream from the spill site, were found to be within the federal limits, except for thallium, which was found at levels three times the maximum limit, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data.

For 10 days after the Kingston ash pond spill, Penny Dodson stayed at her nearby home with her 18-month-old grandson, Evan. When Evan's health took a turn, Dodson said doctors determined airborne fly ash in the community contributed to his health issues.

Metal testing showed high levels of arsenic and lead in Evan's body and high levels of arsenic in Dodson's body. TVA evacuated them, but Dodson said it's too late.

"I carry guilt because we stayed, and I was told that we were going to be safe, and I believed them," said Dodson.

Neighbors' stories were written and delivered, along with educational materials, to the legislators. During the testimony Tuesday, one woman cried while sharing her story of how the ash spill affected her life.

State lawmakers are trying to make sure the TVA is doing all it can to remedy the situation.

Hearings will continue Wednesday, when representatives from the TVA and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation will testify.

CEO Tom Kilgore estimated cleanup of the spill to cost between $525 million and $825 million. He said $31 million had already been spent on the cleanup between December and January.

Options TVA has considered to cover the cost include tapping a fund set aside for closing ash ponds, borrowing money or long-term bond financing.

More than 1 billion gallons of coal ash sludge broke through a retention wall Dec. 22 and poured into a river inlet and rural neighborhood about 40 miles west of Knoxville.

No one was hurt in the spill, but 300 acres were covered with up to 9 feet of sludge.