Tacoma officials plan for water supply adjustments amid declining mill demands

During a recent meeting of the Tacoma Government Performance and Finance Committee, significant discussions centered around the city's water supply management and future demands. A key focus was the impact of the closure of the WestRock pulp mill, which has drastically reduced water consumption in the area. The mill's operations once consumed approximately 35 million gallons of water daily, but with its shutdown, Tacoma anticipates a long-term average demand drop to around 12 million gallons per day.

City officials emphasized the need for careful planning to ensure the water system can meet future demands, particularly as new agreements with Cascade Water Alliance are set to take effect in the 2040s. These agreements will require Tacoma to adjust its water supply strategies, including enhancing infrastructure to manage increased demands from Cascade.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of the South Tacoma aquifer, which has been underutilized in recent years due to declining demand. Officials outlined plans to fully utilize this resource while ensuring that investments in water supply are phased in appropriately to avoid stranded assets.

Concerns were raised about the potential costs associated with maintaining water quality, particularly regarding PFAS contamination. Tacoma officials assured that financial models are in place to ensure that Cascade will contribute to the costs of maintaining clean water, treating them as any other wholesale customer.

Overall, the discussions underscored Tacoma's commitment to proactive water management and infrastructure planning, ensuring that the city can meet both current and future water needs while maintaining quality standards for its residents. As Tacoma prepares for these changes, the focus remains on optimizing resources and ensuring sustainable water supply for the community.