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County signs EPA findings, begins wastewater facility work; pond to be removed after new plant is built
Summary
Williams County executed the EPA final findings and orders, staff said construction work began April 7, contractors are on site, the county will discharge prior to the pond during construction and the existing pond will be removed when a new treatment facility is built.
Williams County commissioners signed the EPA’s final findings and orders on April 17, county staff said, and construction work on a wastewater treatment upgrade is underway.
County staff told the board the contractor had equipment on site and the county began dewatering the pond to prepare the construction area. The county will sample discharge before it reaches the pond to meet permit conditions while the pond is out of service, staff said. Officials warned residents near the site that dewatering could cause short-term odors as material is removed from the pond bottom.
Staff said the plan is to build the new treatment facility adjacent to the existing one, bring the new plant online, make the connection and then remove the pond and old structures. The new plant will have a smaller footprint; the county will remove some fencing and restore property access after construction.
Why it matters: County staff told commissioners the pond likely contributed to some failed sampling tests because it accumulates leaves, wildlife and other material; discharging prior to the pond while the project proceeds should allow the county to meet permit conditions during construction.
Board and logistics Staff indicated they will submit monthly construction status reports to Ohio EPA contacts until the findings and orders are satisfied and the project is complete. County staff said they have been communicating with EPA staff in Columbus and Bowling Green about scheduling and reporting.
Construction impacts and schedule County staff said contractors have cleared some trees, placed equipment on site and will create a dry working area by pumping out the pond. After the new facility is installed, the county will demolish the existing pond; the treatment facility will remain fenced but with a smaller footprint and separate access, staff said.
Ending County staff told commissioners the project should improve permit compliance and reduce the need for the pond as a finishing step in treatment. Staff asked residents to expect short-term odor during dewatering and said they will provide monthly updates to regulators and the board until the work is complete.
