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Sunnyside declares emergency to fast-track wastewater treatment plant repairs tied to state grant
Summary
The council declared a state of emergency for repairs at the wastewater treatment plant to meet state grant timelines and permit work to proceed without the normal competitive-bid process.
The Sunnyside City Council adopted a resolution declaring a state of emergency to allow expedited repairs at the city's wastewater treatment plant, citing unforeseen conditions affecting the boiler system and methane gas piping for the digester.
City staff said the emergency declaration was needed to meet the timeline for a related state grant and to allow contractors to begin demolition and critical work immediately. Under state law, the emergency declaration lets the city waive routine competitive bidding for public-works projects when immediate action is needed to protect public health or property.
Interim public-works staff and the city manager told the council that some long-lead equipment and demolition work must begin now to keep the grant schedule and that the earlier spring presentation had omitted the explicit emergency language required for the grant. The council adopted the emergency resolution by unanimous roll-call vote.
The city said it will proceed with the demolition and initial repairs and will advertise or negotiate contracts consistent with the emergency provisions of RCW 39.04.280. Staff indicated further design and procurement steps will follow and that the council will be kept apprised of costs and progress.
