Saint Peter authorizes $140,000 preliminary engineering for wastewater/biosolids work, eyes MPCA and PFA funding

The Saint Peter City Council on March 10 authorized Bolton & Menk to begin preliminary engineering for improvements at the city wastewater treatment plant, including evaluation of biosolids handling. Staff described the work as an early design phase to measure existing structures, identify equipment sizing and hydraulic requirements, and evaluate treatment options so the city can pursue state funding.

The construction‑manager‑at‑risk (CMAR) Rice Lake was earlier selected for project management. Bolton & Menk told the city the preliminary effort will be roughly 750 hours and cost about $140,000. City staff said they plan to spend March through May completing details and to submit material to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) by June 1 to position the project for the Public Facilities Authority (PFA) and Clean Water Revolving Fund programs.

Council and staff discussed the core decision ahead: whether to adopt a drying process or a pressing process for biosolids. Daryl asked how Bolton & Menk will help the city weigh the capital‑and‑operating cost differences; staff said the engineering contract includes hydraulic and flow modeling and options analysis that will estimate life‑cycle impacts and rate effects for customers. Staff also said MPCA permit cycles influence timing; the city expects at least one more permit cycle before a final operating decision and will bring detailed recommendations back to council during future workshops.

Bolton & Menk’s work is a preparatory step for final design and funding. The council approved the authorization by roll call; staff will return with final designs and a funding plan after completing preliminary engineering and MPCA submittal.