Board approves PFAS litigation authorization, highway design work and other resolutions
Loading...
Summary
Besides adopting the comprehensive plan, the Marathon County Board authorized Phase 2 design for a new highway facility, approved contingency-fee PFAS litigation with directed evaluation of county risks, ratified a local emergency and adopted several budget and personnel resolutions.
At its March 24 meeting the Marathon County Board of Supervisors approved multiple separate resolutions and actions beyond the comprehensive plan adoption.
The board approved resolution R-13-26 authorizing staff to proceed with Phase 2 design services for the proposed new highway facility; the motion (Robinson/Ball) passed unanimously. Chair Gibbs and Supervisor Seibert noted future follow-ups to clarify plans for the old highway facility.
On environmental litigation, the board authorized the engagement of outside counsel on a contingency-fee basis to pursue PFAS-related claims (Resolution 14-26). Supervisor Robinson moved and Supervisor Seefeldt seconded the resolution; the board adopted two amendments directing the county administrator to evaluate past and present practices to identify county risks and to adjust language concerning county properties (including airport-related references). After amendments the resolution passed unanimously. Administrator Leonard thanked the multi-department response team and described the emergency costs and staff efforts that prompted the ratification.
Other actions included approving carryforwards and associated budget amendments (R-20-26), setting capital-asset thresholds (R-21-26) and adopting personnel salary resolutions for elected department heads (R-12-26). The board also ratified a local state of emergency tied to a recent blizzard-related event to preserve reimbursement opportunities; Leonard praised staff who worked extended shifts and helped keep critical operations running.
Why it matters: The PFAS litigation authorization opens a cost-recovery pathway for possible contamination claims and directs staff analysis of county exposure and historic practices; the highway design authorization moves a major capital project into design work. The emergency ratification preserves the county's ability to pursue reimbursements under state statute.
What's next: Administration will coordinate follow-up reporting on the PFAS evaluation and the highway project, and committee actions will follow on capital and budget items as required.
Sources: Proceedings of the Marathon County Board of Supervisors, March 24, 2026 meeting.
