The City of Defiance is set to address a critical infrastructure issue following a recent council meeting where officials discussed the urgent need to replace a failed membrane at the local water pollution control facility. The membrane, which was installed in 2018, has deteriorated much faster than expected, leading to concerns about its integrity and safety.

During the meeting, city officials revealed that the membrane's failure was attributed to unexpected UV breakdown, with the material degrading to 50% of its original strength in just six years. This has prompted the city to seek immediate replacement to ensure continued safe operation of the facility. The council is considering an emergency funding request to expedite the replacement process, given the long lead time for manufacturing the new membranes.

The proposed solution includes replacing both the inner and outer membranes to prevent future complications. Officials emphasized that installing a new outer membrane over an aging inner membrane could lead to further issues down the line. The new membranes will be thicker and are expected to provide a longer lifespan.

The estimated cost for the replacement is approximately $113,000, significantly reduced from an initial quote of $174,000. This reduction was achieved through negotiations with the manufacturer, who has shown a commitment to addressing the city's concerns. However, the installation costs remain a point of contention, with quotes ranging from $90,000 to over $200,000.

City officials are also exploring options to protect the new membranes from UV damage, including potential coverings or UV protectants, to extend their lifespan. The council is committed to ensuring that the facility operates efficiently and safely, with plans to utilize methane gas generated at the site for energy needs in the future.

As the city moves forward with these plans, officials are optimistic about the collaboration with the membrane manufacturer and are hopeful for a resolution that will enhance the facility's reliability and performance. The council's proactive approach aims to safeguard the community's water quality and infrastructure for years to come.