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Council OKs three-year biosolids disposal contract with FSO Management amid PFAS, cost concerns
Summary
Escanaba approved retaining FSO Management for biosolids disposal under a three-year arrangement that includes a $12,500 mobilization fee and a rate of $0.27 per gallon; councilors discussed land-application limits, landfill tipping fees and PFAS considerations.
The Escanaba City Council on Feb. 20 approved a three-year disposal contract with FSO Management of Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, to haul and dispose of biosolids produced by the city wastewater plant.
The contract includes a $12,500 mobilization fee and a variable unit rate discussed at $0.27 per gallon. Council discussion focused on the city’s shrinking options for land application of biosolids, the growing role of landfill disposal because of PFAS concerns, and uncertainty about future tipping fees.
Staff said land application — a historically low-cost option used since 1991 — is becoming harder to use within regulatory rules, and the city needs time to study long-term solutions. Council heard that FSO has provided reliable service in the past and that extending or amending with FSO is likely cheaper than rebidding in current markets. Staff presented an illustrative estimate of about 500,000 gallons for 2025 with an approximate disposal cost near $295,000 under the proposed rates; staff warned, however, that landfill tipping fees could rise (staff suggested $70/ton is a low estimate and actual fees could reach $100/ton or more), which would increase disposal costs.
Councilors asked staff to pursue engineering studies and options — including screw presses, drying, trucking, and pre-treatment — and to bring back a long-term plan. The motion to approve the contract passed on a roll call with unanimous support.
