By: Associated Press//October 29, 2013//
Madison (AP) — A federal judge has approved a $4.6 million settlement of an environmental lawsuit against a Madison manufacturer by a group of its neighbors.
U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb approved the settlement Monday against Madison-Kipp.
Under the settlement reached in July, the 32 homes will receive money and pollution control equipment. Madison-Kipp will replace the top one foot of soil from their yards with clean fill.
The Wisconsin Journal Sentinel reported the settlement is similar to one for $2.6 million that involves 52 other neighboring homes that was approved last month in Dane County.
In both cases, neighbors alleged contamination from the plant lowered property values.
Madison-Kipp denies the allegations. A state environmental lawsuit still is pending.
The company makes machined components for transportation, industrial and lawn and garden customers.