The commission voiced concerns regarding the draft National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit issued by the EPA, particularly the nitrogen limits set for the Mount Hope Watershed. Members criticized the five milligrams per liter rolling average limit as excessively low, arguing that it would lead to prohibitively expensive upgrades to the facility, estimated at around $250 million over a five-year period. The commission disputed the scientific basis of the proposed limits and highlighted that the EPA did not adequately consider studies and timelines previously provided by the commission. Additionally, they expressed frustrations over the draft permit’s apparent disregard for environmental improvements carried out by other facilities in the region.

Another development in the meeting was the unanimous approval of a new 10-year contract for the management of the wastewater treatment facility, awarded to INFAR for a sum of $88,153,549. The contract includes beneficial changes for the city, such as the removal of incinerator-related clauses, and the option to reinvest rebates into special accounts dedicated to capital improvements. INFAR’s representatives were present and delivered a presentation, outlining their approach to a seamless transition and staff engagement. The commission showed enthusiasm for the partnership and its potential to elevate the facility to a first-class operation. The contract is pending city council approval.

The commission also addressed a pressing public safety and business concern related to the Stafford Square area. They discussed a long-overdue flood mitigation project, which is critical for addressing recurrent flooding issues. A $2 million grant was mentioned, intended to fund the complete design of the project. The commission hopes to secure additional funding through a FEMA grant and estimates the design and construction timeline to span approximately eighteen months.

Operational updates at the sewage treatment facility included the handling building’s final inspections and staff transition following the replacement of the old incinerator building. The commission reported the Was tank and THCK Was tank being fully operational for around three months. The blowers, auto control systems, and gravity belt thickeners were functioning properly, with minor issues being addressed and performance testing on hold due to a backlog of thick sludge. Additionally, the belt filter presses were expected to go online in the following month.

Furthermore, the commission approved amendments and change orders concerning ongoing contracts. An amendment for $50,000 was discussed to assist in compiling information for treatment plant-related reports. Concern was raised about potential delays in a project with CDM Smith, initially due on June 30th, now projected for November completion. The discussion covered the prospects of recouping funds through liquidated damages and the necessity of additional services. Amendment number three to CDM Smith’s contract, amounting to $250,000, was debated, which would extend regulatory support and construction management to November. Change order number five for Daniel O’Connell and Sons totaled $4,673.14, with total change order amounts representing approximately 2.3% of the contract’s total value. The commission reviewed these changes carefully, considering the nature of the changes and the project’s current 75% completion status.