Dear Neighbors,
As you probably know, the state reached an $850 million settlement with 3M this week. This came about because drinking water and ground water is contaminated with perflurocarbons (PFC). The contamination has raised concerns throughout many suburbs in the east metro, including here in our area.
This settlement will address those concerns.
I have had many meetings with the MPCA and local governments to ensure we put the proper water filtration systems in place to protect our residents in both the short and long-term. I had also introduced a bill to appropriate $10 million to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to cover costs cities have paid to filter drinking water so it could meet the current standards, but the settlement will now cover those costs.
One of my personal initiatives is to give residents who have private wells the ability to get tested when they want without waiting for the state. Though we’ll continue to see regular tests, those with private wells should have the freedom to have their water tested on their own timetable. Another issue that I will be working on is ensuring that these settlement dollars stay here in our community, and that we all have a seat at the table and voice in determining how the money is spent.
We’ll continue to have discussions at the state and local levels, and I’ll be sure to keep you informed as decisions are made. Know that I’m working for you, and encourage you to contact me with any suggestions relating to PFC contamination in our area.
Sincerely,
Keith