Highland City Council approves water testing amid PFAS concerns

Highland City Council took significant steps towards ensuring the safety and quality of its drinking water during its meeting on July 1, 2025. The council approved a resolution to engage in a legal services agreement aimed at evaluating potential contamination in the city's water supply, specifically concerning PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) particulates. This decision comes in light of pending EPA regulations that could impact public drinking water systems nationwide.

Council members expressed concerns about the impartiality of the testing process, with some questioning whether the evaluation would be unbiased. However, the consensus was that the testing could provide valuable insights into the water quality, with the hope that results would confirm Highland's water remains safe. The city has previously tested its water and found it to be well below EPA limits, but the council emphasized the importance of thorough testing to ensure public health.

The resolution passed with a vote of 4 to 1, with an amendment stating that the city is not currently aware of any contamination in its drinking water. This amendment was crucial in addressing concerns that the resolution implied existing contamination.

In addition to the water quality discussions, the council also addressed a text amendment regarding the expiration of land use applications. This amendment aims to establish clear deadlines for pending applications to streamline the approval process and prevent projects from lingering indefinitely. The council recognized the need for a more efficient system to manage applications and ensure timely progress on development projects.

The council's actions reflect a proactive approach to both public health and urban development, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance. As Highland City moves forward, residents can expect continued efforts to maintain the integrity of their drinking water and improve the efficiency of land use processes.