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State Representative Joe Atkins
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-4192
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
Press/News Releases
INVER GROVE PASTORS TO RECEIVE COMPENSATION FOR STATE DUMPING MISTAKE
ST. PAUL - Two Inver Grove Heights pastors will receive $67,000 in compensation from the State of Minnesota for a MnDOT dumping mistake that dropped tons of construction waste - including asbestos-contaminated bridge pilings - on their property. The award was included in this year's claims bill signed into law today.
"This was, without doubt, the state's responsibility," said Rep. Joe Atkins, who helped the McEachrans usher their claim through the legislative process. "What happened to the McEachrans was unthinkable, and I'm glad they're finally getting the compensation they deserve."
Before their home was built, the McEachran's property was the site of an undocumented dumping zone for asbestos-contaminated materials. Among other things, asbestos-contaminated pilings from a state bridge were unearthed on property that the McEachrans purchased and built their home on. The couple was unaware of the property's 25-year history of misuse by the state.
"Unfortunately a spaghetti dinner fundraiser held by friends in Inver Grove Heights last year to help the McEachrans with these expenses came up short," said Atkins. "But after years of fighting, these innocent people will be able to put this episode behind them."
According to a Dakota County assessment, estimated cleanup costs totaled around $82,000. The City of Inver Grove Heights recently awarded the McEachrans $15,000. The state is now awarding the couple the additional $67,000.
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