Well Restrictions in Dickson County Advance

A proposal that restricts new well construction near a Dickson County landfill advanced this week.

At issue is contaminated groundwater from the county’s landfill that has seeped into a neighborhood three miles away. Families there claim the tainted water has caused cancer and birth defects.

County Attorney Tim Potter says officials believe the proposal will prevent families from drinking contaminated water in the future.

“The homeowner must demonstrate there is no other source of drinking water available. Also, if city water isn’t available, the only way a well is going to put into usage is if it will satisfy Tennessee Drinking Water criteria as it’s in the statute.”

Activists asked county officials to defer a decision on the proposal, fearing their request for a massive cleanup request would be ignored and polluted water would spread beyond the neighborhood where it is now.

Dickson County Commissioners will take a final vote in two weeks.