Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced on April 30 that her office has reached an agreement with Northeast Gravel Company and Boulder Creek Development Corporation to address PFAS contamination at a property in Belmont. The agreement, formalized through an Administrative Order on Consent, requires the companies to investigate the extent of the contamination, conduct necessary response activities, and take steps to protect residents whose drinking water has been affected.
The issue is significant for public health and safety because PFAS chemicals, sometimes called “forever chemicals,” have been linked to environmental and health concerns. Local residents have expressed concern about their exposure due to contaminated groundwater used for drinking water.
“Michigan residents shouldn’t have to worry about companies leaking forever chemicals in their backyards,” said Attorney General Nessel. “This agreement ensures that those responsible for PFAS contamination are held accountable for cleanup efforts to protect the health and safety of the Belmont community.”
Phil Roos, Director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), also commented on the development. “The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) remains committed to addressing PFAS contamination and safeguarding Michigan’s communities,” Roos said. “This agreement is an important step toward ensuring residents have the clean, safe water they deserve. We will continue to take decisive action and collaborate with partners to protect public health now and for the future.”
Northeast Gravel Company previously operated a landfill at this site where a leak was detected in 2018 from one of its cells; this led to PFAS contaminating both local groundwater supplies used by area residents as well as impacting the Grand River. Boulder Creek Development Corporation acquired this property in 1996 before redeveloping it into a golf course and residential neighborhood. After unsuccessful attempts by EGLE to get both companies involved in remediation efforts—including providing new sources of drinking water—Attorney General Nessel filed a lawsuit against them in January 2025. The subsequent agreement requires investigation work needed for resident protection.
Additionally, Boulder Creek Development Corporation will reimburse EGLE $100,000 for costs incurred during required investigation and response activities.