The Town of Wellesley is receiving $1.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding from the Federal government.
This money will be used to support interim PFAS mitigation efforts for Wellesley's drinking water after elevated levels were detected last summer.
Per- and PolyFluorAlkyl Substances or PFAS, are a group of numerous human-made chemicals used since the 1950s to manufacture stain-resistant, water-resistant, and non-stick products. These chemicals do not break down and studies have shown that long term exposure may impact public health.
Water and sewer infrastructure improvements are eligible for ARPA funds which are administered by Norfolk County through an application process. Wellesley submitted its application earlier this year and was approved in late November.
Norfolk County Commissioners presented a check for $1.5 million to Wellesley Finance Director Sheryl Strother at their meeting on Wednesday, December 1. Wellesley is the first community in the County to be awarded ARPA funds.
Pictured from left to right are: Norfolk County Commissioners Peter Collins, Richard Staiti, and Joseph Shea with Sheryl Strother and Norfolk County Treasurer Michael Bellotti.
On Thursday, December 16, the Department of Public Works will hold a public forum to discuss PFAS mitigation efforts in Wellesley and gather input from residents. Information on this forum will be posted on the Town website.