A recent lawsuit filed in Henry County, Missouri, alleges that Evergy and three other companies are responsible for contaminating local soil and water with toxic chemicals, including carcinogens.
The plaintiffs, Bill and Sue Steward, claim that improper handling and disposal of “fly ash” from a coal-fired power plant in Montrose have led to significant environmental and health hazards.
Understanding Fly Ash and Its Risks
Fly ash is a byproduct of burning coal in power plants and contains various toxic metals and chemicals known to cause cancer. While it is often repurposed in construction materials like concrete, improper management can lead to environmental contamination.
Allegations Against Evergy
The lawsuit asserts that Evergy, which currently owns the Montrose facility, along with its predecessors, failed to adequately store, dispose of, and transport hundreds of thousands of pounds of fly ash. This negligence allegedly allowed harmful substances to leach into the surrounding air, soil, and water over several decades.
Health and Environmental Impact
The Stewards allege that their property has been contaminated with toxic metals and carcinogens due to uncontrolled fly ash dispersion. They claim prolonged exposure has increased their risk of developing cancer and other serious health issues.
Evergy’s Response
In response to the allegations, Evergy stated that the Montrose facility complies with all state and federal regulations.
The company highlighted its dust control plan, which includes twice-daily visual inspections to ensure compliance. Recent inspections by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources in March 2023 and August 2024 reportedly found no compliance issues.
Community Concerns
The lawsuit has heightened concerns within the Henry County community. During a recent county commission meeting, Bill Steward presented test results indicating the presence of hexavalent chromium—a potent carcinogen—in local soil samples. He emphasized the severity of the contamination, stating that it has forced him to abandon his home due to sa
fety concerns.
Impact on Local Institutions
The Davis R-12 School, located near the Montrose plant, proactively canceled classes as a precautionary measure while awaiting test results of its soil and water.
This action underscores the growing apprehension about potential health risks associated with the alleged contamination.
Legal Precedents in Missouri
Missouri has a history of environmental contamination cases linked to industrial activities. For instance, in the early 1980s, the town of Times Beach was evacuated due to dioxin contamination from industrial waste used to control dust on roads.
Additionally, companies like Monsanto have faced numerous lawsuits over polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) contamination, leading to significant settlements and ongoing legal challenges.
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Plaintiffs | Bill and Sue Steward |
Defendants | Evergy and three other companies |
Allegations | Improper handling and disposal of fly ash leading to environmental contamination |
Health Concerns | Increased risk of cancer and other illnesses due to exposure to toxic substances |
Company’s Defense | Compliance with all state and federal regulations; regular inspections showing no issues |
Community Impact | Soil and water contamination; precautionary school closures |
The lawsuit against Evergy and associated companies brings to light serious concerns about environmental management and public health in Henry County, Missouri.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case underscores the critical importance of stringent environmental oversight and corporate responsibility in preventing toxic contamination.