The multi-million dollar settlement going to some Blackwell property owners was given preliminary approval December 19th, in that class action lawsuit against Freeport McMoRan. The suit claimed Blackwell was left contaminated from toxic waste left behind by the zinc smelter that operated there between 1916 and 1974. The final fairness hearing is set for March 22nd, and if the settlement doesn't get approval in that final hearing, there will be no settlement, and the case will proceed to trial. Lawyers representing Blackwell residents in the class have set up an office at 523 S. Main Street in Blackwell to answer questions in the meantime. 1-800-853-5310