Article published Apr 21, 2008

Anaconda, Opportunity residents sue Arco over mine pollution

ANACONDA (AP) — About 90 residents in the Anaconda and Opportunity areas have filed a lawsuit against the Atlantic Richfield Co. and other companies alleging the smelting operation contaminated their property and put public health at risk.

The 18-page complaint seeks a jury trial in which the residents want to prove that mining companies recklessly jeopardized their property, health and welfare with smelting operations from 1884 to 1980.

The lawsuit was filed last week in District Court in Butte. 

Plaintiff George Niland of Opportunity says Arco’s cleanup efforts have taken too long and aren’t satisfactory. 

Arco spokeswoman Robin Bullock says she can’t comment on the lawsuit. However, she says the company has been complying with Environmental Protection Agency requirements for cleaning the site