West Shore Pipe Line Company opens claims center

JACKSON -- The West Shore Pipe Line Company has opened a claims center for residents affected by the pipeline leak in Jackson. It's an opportunity for homeowners affected by the leak to get face-to-face help.

Nicki Olszewski stocked up on bottled water and moved back into her Jackson home after high levels of benzene were found in wells.

"You don't realize how much you use water until you're told you can't do it. Even doing dishes -- you have to pour your bottled water in a bowl, warm it in a microwave. It's just at an inconvenience," Olszewski said.

Olszewski's well tested negative for benzene and her water is considered safe for washing and showering.

Bridget Case, however, is filing a property damage claim with Pilot Catastrophe Services, the company hired by West Shore Pipe Line Company

"I'm concerned that the ground is contaminated, for many years to come. I'm concerned about the water. I'm concerned about everybody living in the area," Case said.

Jim Back and his Pilot Catastrophe Services team are hearing not only property damage claims but also additional living expense claims.

"All of the expenses ranging from staying at hotels to their dry cleaning and laundry money that they've had to spend," Back said.

Claims can be made at the center -- which has been set up at the Comfort Inn at W227 N16890 Tillie Lake Court in Jackson. The center will be open daily from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Affected residents can also call the claims hotline at 866-837-5016. Operators will also be available from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily.

Anyone who filed will be contacted by an adjuster, who will go through each claim.

The claims center and hotline will help residents with:

    Residents within the Wisconsin DNR’s Drinking Water Advisory area may also obtain bottled water directly from the claims center.

    Monitor FOX6 News and FOX6Now.com for updates on this developing story.

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