Tulsa RMUA forecasts $2M operational cost hike from new biosolid legislation

A significant financial burden looms over Broken Arrow as city officials grapple with the implications of newly proposed legislation. During the City Council meeting on March 4, 2025, discussions centered on Senate Bill 003, which, if passed, could lead to operational costs skyrocketing by as much as $2 million annually for the Regional Municipal Utility Authority (RMUA).

The bill mandates that biosolids, a byproduct of wastewater treatment, be diverted from land application to landfills. This shift is expected to impose hefty landfill tipping fees, estimated between $750,000 and $1 million for the RMUA alone. The broader Tulsa area could face operational costs nearing $9 million, significantly impacting local waste management practices.

Concerns were raised about the capacity of landfills to handle the increased volume of biosolids, with officials noting that modifications would be necessary to accommodate the new regulations. The potential for rising costs in solid waste management was also highlighted, as the Solid Waste Index (CSI) is projected to increase due to these changes.

Moreover, the legislation could jeopardize a $48 million municipal project at the Hakee Creek wastewater treatment plant, which relies on biosolids for composting. The uncertainty surrounding this project adds to the urgency of addressing the financial implications of the proposed bills.

City officials emphasized the need for a balanced approach to environmental concerns, advocating for a collaborative effort involving manufacturers and industries contributing to the pollution problem. They expressed a desire to engage with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a more comprehensive strategy rather than placing the financial burden solely on ratepayers.

As the council deliberates on these pressing issues, the potential for a resolution opposing the legislation was discussed, aiming to ensure that the financial and operational impacts are clearly communicated to state legislators. The council's proactive stance reflects a commitment to safeguarding the community's interests amid evolving environmental regulations.