In a recent meeting of the Waukesha Board of Public Works, city officials approved a significant contract with the Smith Group for on-call engineering and operations support services related to the Clean Water Plant. This decision comes as the city prepares for upcoming changes in environmental regulations, particularly concerning the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) permits that will impact both the Clean Water Plant and the stormwater system.

The Smith Group will provide specialized knowledge to assist the city in navigating the complexities of DNR permitting and negotiating favorable terms for these new permits. This expertise is deemed essential as the TMDL regulations are expected to bring substantial changes that could affect future project costs and operational strategies.

The contract, which spans three years, is structured as an hourly agreement with a total potential cost of $117,444, contingent on the extent of services utilized. City officials emphasized that this cost is not guaranteed, as the actual expenses will depend on the negotiations with the DNR and the specific needs that arise during the contract period.

The approval of this contract reflects the city's proactive approach to managing environmental compliance and ensuring that it is well-prepared for the regulatory changes ahead. The Board's unanimous vote underscores the importance of having specialized support to navigate these challenges effectively.

As Waukesha moves forward, the collaboration with the Smith Group will be crucial in aligning the city's water management strategies with state regulations, ultimately aiming to safeguard public health and the environment.