Council pauses vote on extending combined-sewer overflow monitoring contract cited as EPA requirement

The Defiance City Council on Jan. 7 postponed consideration of a contract extension to keep existing combined-sewer overflow sensors and data monitoring online while staff seeks a replacement system.

Council member Mack, who presented the item, said the monitoring is required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the city must provide real-time overflow data on its website. "It's an EPA order, so we have to comply with it," Mack said.

The contract would extend service with the city's current vendor, Silent View, which Mack said had been bought out and would not support the sensors long term. Mack said staff continues to evaluate replacement sensors and vendors; he said Mark and others had spoken with Zylem, which had "verbally said they will support us for at least the remainder of the year." The council did not provide details of contract length or dollar amounts in the record.

Council members discussed timing around implementing a new system and whether the city would be able to bring a new system online before the extension expired. Mack said staff plans to align the start of any new system with the end of the extension, if possible.

Council member Corbett moved to "let lie" the item until the next meeting; Council member Engel seconded. By voice vote the council approved postponement. The council was four members present and voted in favor.

No contract was awarded and no additional funding was approved at the Jan. 7 meeting. City staff will return with further information and recommendations on sensor replacements and vendor support before the council takes a final vote.