Des Moines Hires Law Firm to Probe PFAS Damages
The city council retained Grossman & Kelly to investigate potential legal claims regarding water contamination.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Utilities
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Des Moines has officially hired the law firm Grossman & Kelly to investigate potential damages related to PFAS contamination. The firm will examine contamination in firefighting materials, microplastics, and tobacco waste to determine if the city should pursue legal action.
Why it matters
The investigation marks a significant effort by the city to address the presence of human-made PFAS chemicals in local water sources. This initiative follows national trends where municipalities are seeking compensation for water remediation costs from chemical manufacturers.
Grossman & Kelly is entitled to a 33% contingency fee from any recovered funds, plus costs. Previously, DSM Water Works secured a $9.7 million settlement from 3M in 2025, while West Des Moines Water Works expects $2.3 million from PFAS settlements.
The players
Des Moines City Council
This is the legislative body responsible for overseeing the municipal operations and public utility interests of Des Moines.
Grossman & Kelly
This law firm specializes in complex environmental litigation and is currently handling similar PFAS-related contamination claims across multiple states.
DSM Water Works
This municipal water utility provides water services to the Des Moines metro area and manages the treatment of local water sources.
The details
Grossman & Kelly, which is pursuing similar claims in Columbus and Avon, will utilize expert geologists to evaluate potential damages. The investigation encompasses various contamination sources, including firefighting foam and gear.
Timeline
A 2023 U.S. Geological Survey study estimated that at least 45% of U.S. tap water contains PFAS.
DSM Water Works was awarded $9.7 million from a 3M settlement in 2025.
The Des Moines City Council retained the law firm Grossman & Kelly in October 2026.
Market Landscape
This move follows the pattern set by the 2025 3M PFAS settlement, signaling a broader industry push for municipal compensation. It positions Des Moines among other cities actively seeking to hold chemical producers financially responsible for water treatment burdens.
This legal action aims to secure funds that could offset future water treatment costs, potentially protecting local taxpayers from shouldering the burden of remediation. Residents should watch for further developments as the city evaluates its potential for filing formal claims.
The takeaway
PFAS contamination remains a widespread issue, with recent studies estimating its presence in nearly half of the nation's tap water. Homeowners concerned about water quality can contact their local water providers to request annual water quality reports detailing detected substances.
Further reading
Learn more about local water management and infrastructure by visiting Des Moines Utilities.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Axios.
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