CADILLAC — The City of Cadillac is addressing what it calls misinformation circulating on social media regarding PFAS contamination, the Local Development Finance Authority, and alleged Open Meetings Act violations.
City Manager Marcus Peccia issued a statement Oct. 27, reaffirming Cadillac’s commitment to transparency and environmental stewardship, while clarifying that the city was not the source of any PFAS contamination or groundwater pollution.
According to the release, the contamination stemmed from private industrial activity decades ago, not from city projects or operations.
The city said the LDFA has worked for more than 30 years to clean up contamination caused by others, investing in redevelopment and working with state and federal agencies to restore affected areas. Cadillac has also pursued grant funding for long-term remediation efforts.
The city also addressed allegations of political manipulation, saying some individuals have filed unfounded criminal complaints against city officials.
Those claims were reviewed by Sara M. Swanson, Benzie County prosecutor, who determined in an Oct. 24 letter that no charges would be filed. The city said its internal review found no violations of the Open Meetings Act and that all LDFA meetings have met legal public notice and quorum requirements.
Cadillac officials also condemned what they described as “vile and threatening comments” directed toward city employees and elected officials, calling such behavior unacceptable in a civil community.
The city emphasized its focus on progress, collaboration, and respect, noting decades of investment in transforming former industrial areas into thriving business districts. Officials said Cadillac remains committed to ensuring safe water, open communication, and a respectful civic environment.
“The residents of Cadillac deserve facts, not fear — progress, not politics,” the statement read.