ENVIRONMENT

Residents Sue Over State's Highest PFAS in Tap

PUBLISHED Jul 7, 2026, 2:35 PM ET

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St. Pauls, North Carolina. On June 16, residents filed a lawsuit against Robeson County after tests cited in the complaint found PFAS in treated tap water at levels higher than any treatment plant in the state; the Robeson County Landfill, about half a mile from homes, is named as the potential source of contamination. Abilene, Texas: this week the City Council will consider a $442,100 contract for HDR Engineering to develop PFAS sampling and treatment plans as the city prepares to meet EPA maximum contaminant levels by 2029; St. Pauls' lawsuit seeks remedies and prompts scrutiny of a proposed 35-acre landfill expansion under consideration by county commissioners.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Multiple landfill expansion proposals have been submitted in Robeson County over roughly thirty years.
Recent testing cited by local reporting identified PFAS in treated tap water in St. Pauls at unusually high levels.
June 16: Residents and a community group filed a lawsuit against Robeson County alleging landfill-related PFAS contamination.
County commissioners are now considering a roughly 35-acre expansion of the 537-acre Robeson County Landfill.
This week/Thursday: Abilene City Council will consider a $442,100 contract with HDR Engineering to plan PFAS sampling and treatment ahead of EPA MCLs by 2029.

News Intelligence

PFAS in tap water can affect your health. St. Pauls' lawsuit could set a precedent for other communities. If you live near a landfill, pay attention. Check your local water quality report. Ask if PFAS levels are monitored.

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Who Benefited

Engineering and environmental consulting firms stand to gain contracts and funding for PFAS assessment and remediation work, while municipalities that secure grants will receive resources to plan and implement treatment to meet EPA limits.

Who Impacted

Low-income, predominantly non-white residents of St. Pauls face elevated PFAS in treated tap water, prompting legal action and immediate concerns about health, drinking-water safety, and costly protective measures.

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