City should look for source of contamination

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the apparent lack of initiative from the Kalispell City Hall to investigate the sources of PFAS contamination in our drinking water. As a resident who has been significantly affected by these harmful chemicals, I find it troubling that the city is not prioritizing the identification of the contamination’s origin.

The EPA has identified common sources of PFAS, including industrial facilities where these substances were produced or used, areas with frequent use of fire-fighting foam, and facilities involved in chrome plating, electronics manufacturing or oil recovery.

Homebuyers and investors are less likely to invest in areas where the water supply is compromised, leading to reduced demand and lower property prices, which affects the entire community’s economic well-being.

What is particularly odd and concerning is that during the City Council meeting on June 10 there was no mention or discussion about the necessity of identifying the source of the PFAS contamination. This omission raises serious questions about the city’s approach to addressing this issue. Without understanding the source, efforts such as relocating wells within the same contaminated area will be futile.

Something is odd and I think the better question instead of where did it come from is who benefits from not identifying where it comes from?

Given these facts, it is baffling why city officials are not making a concerted effort to identify the contamination sources. Understanding the source is crucial for implementing effective long-term solutions and ensuring the safety of our water supply.

Our community deserves safe, clean drinking water, and addressing this issue proactively is essential for protecting public health and maintaining our property values.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.

Garrett Epperson lives in Kalispell.