CONTACT: Mark Meunier
608-242-5270
Madison-Kipp Corporation
Committed to moving forward, company agrees to settle with neighboring residents
Madison-Kipp Corporation (MKC) and the attorneys representing Madison-Kipp’s east-side neighbors have filed papers seeking court approval of agreements to settle two lawsuits brought by the residents. Residents had asked a federal court to require Madison-Kipp to remediate the environment at the near east-side facility and in the surrounding neighborhood, and in both lawsuits had sought to recover for the alleged diminished value of their property, which they claimed had been caused by releases from Madison-Kipp’s facility during its 100-year operating history. Although Madison-Kipp continues to deny the allegations, it agreed to settle the claims before trial to resolve the conflict with its neighbors by addressing their concerns.
“Madison-Kipp believes the language in the settlement agreements now reflects the most recent and exhaustive environmental research ever conducted at the site, and we look forward to a mutually agreeable resolution that will set the stage for a more cooperative and trusting relationship going forward,” said Madison-Kipp President and CEO, Tony Koblinski.
If the courts approve the settlement agreements, property owners will receive cash payments based on the value of their property. In addition, Madison-Kipp has agreed to install advanced monitoring equipment at its site and on individual properties. The company also has agreed to cooperate with the WDNR and the USEPA as they continue to monitor and protect the areas covered by the agreements.
“The research conducted by the global respected experts at Arcadis indicates that the legacy issues raised by the plaintiffs and their attorneys only affected property. There was no threat to public health. The proposed settlements reflect that conclusion and if approved by the courts will allow Madison-Kipp to focus its attention on building ever better products for its customers so that its workforce and the community can prosper together,” Koblinski said.
