Nogales City Council considers septic program's future with ADEQ and IBWC

The City of Nogales is at a crossroads regarding its septic acceptance and dumping program, as discussions during the June 4, 2025, city council meeting revealed significant concerns about compliance and costs. City officials are weighing whether to continue the program or discontinue it altogether, following recent meetings with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC).

The city is currently in the process of renewing its wastewater discharge permit with ADEQ, which has raised questions about past practices and the management of septic waste. Both ADEQ and IBWC have provided a draft outlining necessary actions, including the requirement for the city to sample and analyze each discharge of hauled waste. This sampling is crucial for ensuring that any contaminated loads are identified quickly, with results available the next day.

Mayor and council members discussed the logistics of implementing this sampling process, including who would bear the costs and responsibilities. The city is considering increasing fees for septic haulers to cover these expenses, while also addressing legal concerns about servicing areas outside Nogales.

Despite the challenges, both ADEQ and IBWC have expressed willingness to work with the city to find a solution that allows for the continued servicing of septic systems. The city currently serves a small percentage of residents with septic systems, but there are indications that more residents may be affected than previously thought.

As the city navigates these discussions, the focus remains on ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while balancing the financial implications for both the city and its residents. The outcome of these deliberations could significantly impact the future of septic waste management in Nogales.