Minnesota legislative audit report criticizes Pollution Control Agency

The Minnesota Legislative Auditor’s Office told state lawmakers on Thursday that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency could have done more, and acted sooner, to possibly prevent years of air pollution from Water Gremlin in White Bear Township.

In 2019, Water Gremlin was told by the MPCA it was exceeding pollution limits set by the federal government, and the company agreed to work with the MPCA to improve its compliance measures. The company also paid a $4.5 million fine as part of its stipulated agreement with the state.

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But, the legislative audit found the MPCA "could have — and should have — taken actions before 2019 to properly regulate Water Gremlin."

Joe Alter, with the Legislative Auditor’s Office, presented the audit report to a legislative committee.

"We’re trying to hold MPCA’s feet to the fire on this as well and say, ‘You know, in this case, you didn’t do your job," Alter said.

MPCA Commissioner Laura Bishop told the committee she agreed with the auditor’s report and assured lawmakers her agency was improving its compliance and enforcement.

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"Water Gremlin’s egregious violations were brought to my attention in my first few days as MPCA commissioner," Bishop said. "And, Water Gremlin’s operations and compliance remain a significant focus of the MPCA today."

A Water Gremlin spokesperson issued the following statement regarding the report:

"Water Gremlin has been working with state and county officials and made significant changes in facilities, staff, and processes to provide a safe and environmentally sustainable operation. This includes discontinuing use of trichloroethylene (TCE) and developing reduced and solvent-free manufacturing capabilities."