LARNED — A pair of agenda items bearing windfall revenue opportunities for the Larned community were at the forefront of Monday’s meeting of the Larned City Council.
Topping the list was the opportunity to participate in a multi-billion-dollar nationwide class action lawsuit regarding possible water supply contamination by contaminants known as “forever chemicals” due to their environmental persistence.
The man-made substances can be found in food, water and in the human body, leading to potential adverse health effects such as increased cholesterol, liver and kidney issues and impacts on the body’s immune system. The total amount of the settlement is estimated at $14.5 billion, in which Larned, if qualified, could receive a share.
The second item concerned an Aug. 20 notification from First National Bank of Hutchinson, administrator for the Morgan Wright Trust, which explained that the City of Larned had been named as a beneficiary following the passing of Joan Wright. Larned City Manager Brad Eilts noted that the significant gift was estimated in the amount of $450,000 and that the bank planned to distribute funds within the next 12 months.
Discussion of both topics resulted in the council’s approval to move forward with both items.
PFAS settlement discussion
In regard to the class action lawsuit, Eilts explained that initial participation would be a resolution for agreement to participate with the Stag Liuzza law firm of New Orleans, to pursue settlement with other legal damage claims awarded. Participation would include testing by the City Water Department staff with kits provided by the firm, to return to its designated lab for testing. Once the kits had been received, water supply testing would commence with a deadline of the end of 2025.
Council agreed to adopt the resolution authorizing participation.
Morgan Wright Trust
Morgan Wright was a World War II veteran and attorney practicing law in the Larned community until his retirement in 2001. He passed away at age 94 on Nov. 27, 2019. His wife Joan passed away on May 17, 2025.
Eilts noted that in his will, the sum of $450,000 was to be bequeathed to the City of Larned with the suggestion that the money be used for community beautification and improvements to promote the stable growth and development of the city.
Following discussion, the council agreed to move forward with receipt of the funds and continue discussing opportunities of their use in the community.
