The Eau Claire City Council voted to approve two resolutions earlier this week relating to PFAS contamination and a property tax settlement.

At Tuesday’s meeting, the city council approved nearly $17 million for the construction of a PFAS removal facility at the water treatment plant. According to a WEAU report, city officials believe that the facility will largely eliminate PFAS contamination from half of the wells in the city when completed. The contract was awarded to Miron Construction, and the facility was designed by an engineering firm called Gannett Fleming.

Funding for the project will be provided by federal grants and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ safe drinking water loan program. Construction on the facility could break ground sometime in mid-July, and will take roughly 18 months to complete. In addition to the funding for the construction of the facility, the City of Eau Claire will need to seek further funding for maintenance upon its completion.

PFAS contamination has been a growing issue across Wisconsin, as the “forever chemicals” have been linked to a number of health problems.

The City Council also voted to approve a settlement with Menards Incorporated after the company filed a lawsuit claiming excessive property tax assessment for its Hastings Way and Clairemont Avenue locations. As part of the settlement, the City of Eau Claire will need to refund Menards Incorporated over $22,000.

The City Council also introduced a resolution to rezone the Regency Inn and Suites from a residential to commercial property following its sale, which will be voted on at a future meeting.