Residents sue MPCA for data on White Bear Township business

Published 9:28 pm Wednesday, August 21, 2019

WHITE BEAR LAKE — More than 100 residents near a White Bear Township manufacturer that has been cited for violating its permit are suing the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, saying it has refused to release data about the company.

The residents’ attorneys said they’ve been trying to get inspection records and other data on Water Gremlin for more than four months. They said the records will help homeowners prove that pollutants emitted by the company cause cancer and other illnesses.

MPCA spokesman Darin Broton said the agency is reviewing the lawsuit. He said the MPCA receives hundreds of data requests monthly and is still compiling requests on Water Gremlin.

Email newsletter signup

Water Gremlin makes fishing sinkers and lead acid battery terminals. In January, the state found it inaccurately reported emissions data for more than 15 years. Water Gremlin agreed to a more than $7 million penalty.