City attorney recommends contingent‑fee counsel for nationwide AFFF settlement claims

Ashley Wygott of the city attorney’s office briefed St. Helens council on a nationwide class‑action settlement process related to AFFF firefighting foam and recommended a contingent‑fee representation agreement to pursue any eligible claims for the city’s public water system.

Wygott summarized the background: litigation against chemical manufacturers including DuPont and 3M resulted in settlement funds and a claims process for public water systems. She named the lead environmental litigators who helped secure the settlement and said a national plaintiff firm is available to assist St. Helens as local counsel is required for certain procedural steps.

Wygott emphasized there would be no out‑of‑pocket costs for the city under the contingent‑fee arrangement — the law firm would cover expenses and take a fee only if there is recovery — and that any payments to municipalities from the claims process are not expected until late 2026 or 2027.

Council had no substantive questions during the work session. Staff indicated additional materials and a formal agreement would appear on an upcoming agenda for council action.