The Town of Hudson is a party to multi-district litigation that has been brought against the manufacturers of PFAS, namely, 3M, DuPont, and Tyco/BASF. PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluroalkyl substances are a group of manufactured chemicals used in products because of their ability to resist heat, oil, grease, water, and stains. These chemicals, known as “forever chemicals”, are found in everyday items, including food packaging, non-stick cookware, and firefighter foam. Because these chemicals persist in the environment, PFAS can contaminate soil and water.
Earlier in the year, the Town was advised that it would be receiving a total gross settlement award of $2,895,531, before a reduction for costs and/or fees. In June and October, the Town received the first two disbursements in this settlement, totaling $1,400,904.10. Additional disbursements will be received at later dates.
In May, the Division of Local Services (DLS) issued a bulletin providing guidance to cities and towns on how to account for the proceeds received in PFAS settlement awards. The guidance states, in part, that the proceeds may be placed in a special revenue fund and used, with appropriation [i.e., by Town Meeting] for any purpose required pursuant to the settlement agreement or, if no restriction exists, any legal purpose allowed under Massachusetts General Laws.
In conformance with the DLS bulletin, Hudson has placed the proceeds received to date from the 3M PWS settlement into a special revenue fund. A recommendation on a strategy to deploy these funds is being developed by the Town Manager and Director of Public Works which will be presented to the Select Board and, ultimately, to Town Meeting next May.
- Town Manager's Office