Brighton approves $27,000 purchase of WetWell Wizard to reduce fats, oils and grease at Third Street lift station

Brighton — The Brighton City Council approved a purchase of a WetWell Wizard device from Link Utility Technologies for $27,000 to reduce accumulation of fats, oils and grease (FOG) at the city’s wastewater lift station on Third Street.

Public works staff presented the device after conducting a free trial at the Third Street wet well starting in early May. Public works presenter Brooks said the unit mixes water and injects air to create an aerobic environment that promotes biological breakdown of FOG. Brooks reported the trial “has been running for about a month, month and a half now, and the effects have been really exactly what they say. There's no FOG in the lift station. There's no adverse effects on the process at the plant.”

Brooks told council the device also appeared to reduce odors and hydrogen sulfide formation, which can corrode ductile iron pipe. He said contract hauling and disposal of FOG materials had previously cost the city several thousand dollars per removal (he cited prior costs that have increased over time), and estimated that continued contractor hauling to remove material twice a year could total roughly $25,000 a year. Council members noted this purchase could reduce labor, equipment wear and external disposal costs.

Council member Pettengill moved to approve the purchase for $27,000; Council member Schmank seconded. Council expressed interest in a future update after the device has been in operation for a year to evaluate cost savings and performance. The motion passed by voice vote.

Staff will report back with operational results and potential system-wide benefits, including effects on force mains and screening at the wastewater plant.