LOTT presents wastewater treatment achievements and future plans for Lacey community

The Lacey City Council Worksession held on June 24, 2025, focused on critical updates regarding local wastewater management and environmental initiatives. The meeting highlighted the operations of the Lacey-Olympia-Tumwater (LOTT) wastewater treatment system, which serves approximately 140,000 residents in the region.

The session began with an overview of LOTT's mission to protect public health and the environment through effective wastewater treatment. The main treatment facility, the Budd Inlet Treatment Plant, processes an impressive 13 million gallons of wastewater daily. This facility, originally established in the 1950s, has undergone significant upgrades to ensure it meets and exceeds regulatory standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

LOTT representatives detailed the extensive infrastructure managed by the organization, valued at around one billion dollars. This includes various treatment plants and reclaimed water facilities, such as the Martin Way Reclaimed Water Plant, which produces 1.5 million gallons of reclaimed water each day. The reclaimed water is utilized for various purposes, including irrigation at local parks and golf courses.

The council was informed about LOTT's rigorous testing and monitoring processes, which involve approximately 23,000 samples annually to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The organization has consistently met its discharge limits for pollutants, earning recognition for its high performance in wastewater treatment compared to other facilities in the Puget Sound region.

A significant point of discussion was LOTT's commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The organization has implemented programs to educate local students about water management and environmental stewardship, with over a thousand fifth graders participating in educational tours last year. Additionally, LOTT is actively involved in addressing broader environmental issues, such as oxygen depletion in Budd Inlet, by collaborating with local tribes and other stakeholders.

The meeting concluded with a focus on future initiatives, including efforts to enhance water quality through septic-to-sewer conversion rebates and affordable housing connection fee rebates. These programs aim to improve community infrastructure while addressing water quality concerns.

Overall, the Lacey City Council Worksession underscored LOTT's dedication to maintaining high standards in wastewater treatment and its proactive approach to environmental challenges, ensuring that the growing community's needs are met sustainably.