Broken Arrow approves HDR engineering contract for comprehensive PFAS compliance study

The Broken Arrow City Council meeting on April 1, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding water quality management and infrastructure improvements. The council discussed the approval of a professional consulting agreement with HDR Engineering for a comprehensive PFAS compliance study, a critical step in addressing emerging contaminants in the city's water supply.

Utilities Director Timothy Robbins presented the contract, emphasizing the urgency and importance of tackling PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) issues. He noted that this was the third consecutive meeting where PFAS had been a central topic, highlighting the city's commitment to ensuring safe drinking water for its residents. The contract, valued at $316,772, will span one year and aims to evaluate the current water treatment processes and the potential contaminants in the water supply.

Robbins explained that the study will involve extensive testing of both drinking water and wastewater systems, including upstream assessments of industrial discharges. This proactive approach is designed to meet new EPA regulations regarding maximum contaminant limits for PFAS, with full compliance expected by 2027 and treatment processes in place by 2029.

In addition to the PFAS study, the council also discussed the need for updates on the recently installed filtration system, which was implemented to improve water quality and address community concerns about odor. Council members expressed a desire for public presentations on the system's effectiveness later in the year.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's dedication to enhancing water safety and transparency, with plans for ongoing public engagement as part of the PFAS compliance efforts. The council's actions reflect a proactive stance on environmental health and community welfare, ensuring that residents are informed and protected from potential water quality issues.