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Palatka’s Willis Water Treatment Plant removed from DEP consent order after equipment plan approved
Summary
State regulators approved an in-kind project so Palatka will spend about 125% of accrued fines on new equipment; the city expects to exit the consent order after equipment is installed and shown in use.
City staff told commissioners on Sept. 25 that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection approved Palatka’s request to be removed from a consent order after the city agreed to an in-kind project to replace accrued penalties with equipment purchases.
“Instead of paying all the fines that we accrued over the years, we turn around. We spend 125% of that into equipment for the plant instead,” said Sean, the plant supervisor, who described items the plant will acquire: a new turbidity meter to monitor particles, push-to-talk radios for storm communications, a handheld DR 900 testing meter for field testing at wells and hydrants, and an arc-flash suit for mechanic safety. Sean said purchase orders had been submitted and, once staff demonstrates the equipment is in use, DEP will sign the paperwork lifting the consent order.
Commissioners reacted positively. Staff noted the city will remove a billing line previously associated with compliance costs after the consent order is lifted. The plant supervisor said the changes should improve on-site testing speed and safety for employees.
