DNR asks JCI/Tyco to clarify deep well option, continue to provide alternative water to affected homeowners

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is aware that on Sept. 15, 2022, Johnson Controls Inc. and Tyco Fire Products LP (JCI/Tyco) communicated with certain homeowners in the company’s potable well sampling area (PWSA) regarding the option for deep drinking water wells as a replacement to bottled water service and/or maintenance of a point-of-entry treatment (POET) system, which JCI/Tyco is currently providing in compliance with state environmental regulations.

State law requires JCI/Tyco to provide an alternate supply of safe drinking water to persons whose water supply has been or is likely to be affected by the migration of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination caused by their company.

While the DNR recognizes that deep wells may be preferred by some homeowners in the PWSA, the DNR has concerns with the way the option for a deep well was presented and the tight deadline for homeowners to agree to a new deep well installed by JCI/Tyco.

In a letter dated September 28, 2022, the DNR described these concerns and asked JCI/Tyco to do the following:

• Reassure homeowners that JCI/Tyco will complete additional monitoring and reporting to the DNR to determine that any installed deep wells meet the requirements for a permanent solution to long-term safe drinking water under DNR rules;
• Allow homeowners more time to consider and if desired, sign the agreement for a deep well; and
  Provide an opportunity for homeowners to ask questions and learn more about the risks and benefits of a deep well. In particular, homeowners should be made aware of the likely presence of radium in groundwater from the deeper aquifer, the risks that contaminant poses and any homeowner responsibilities in maintaining a deep well.

For homeowners who do not choose a deep well at this time:

• Continue to provide them with a supply of alternative safe drinking water (i.e., continuation of bottled water service and/or maintenance of a POET system), and
• Offer future opportunities to have JCI/Tyco install a deep well on their property.

The DNR is committed to helping residents in the area receive a long-term source of safe drinking water in a reasonable time frame and will review any information that JCI/Tyco submits to determine if deep wells are part of a permanent solution.