Minnesota Firm With Pollution Citation Operates in Wisconsin

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- A Minnesota manufacturing plant with repeated pollution violations is apparently continuing to operate in Wisconsin.

Water Gremlin of White Bear Township makes fishing sinkers and battery terminals. Earlier his month, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency ordered Water Gremlin to stop its battery coating process, due to violations.

But WCCO-TV reports that Water Gremlin enlisted Hi-Tec Finishing in Hudson, Wisconsin, to help. A permit application with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says Hi-Tec is working with Water Gremlin to take over its coating process.

The Wisconsin DNR granted the permit. In a statement to WCCO, Water Gremlin says it believes it's operating within its permit. The company didn't return a message left by The Associated Press to see what type of work will be done in Wisconsin.

Earlier this year, Water Gremlin paid more than $7 million in fines for pollution violations.