Plan Commission approves architectural designs for two wastewater treatment buildings; one commissioner votes no

The Oshkosh Plan Commission voted 8-1 Dec. 2 to adopt staff findings approving architectural designs for two new wastewater-treatment buildings — a tertiary filtration building and a UV disinfection equipment building — at the city’s wastewater treatment site.

City staff presented renderings and said the new buildings would use tilt-up precast panels with a brick form liner finish designed to match the color and face pattern of existing brick facades on site. Staff concluded the proposed materials and finishes would be consistent with the existing facility and would not negatively impact surrounding areas. The buildings include a mix of utility and ancillary rooftop equipment, which staff said reduces the feasibility of placing solar panels on these smaller structures.

Commissioner Davey said she would vote no, citing previously stated reasons and urging the city to pursue alternative energy opportunities where practical. Other commissioners praised the technical advances in the wastewater facility and staff’s efforts to provide a complementary design. The public comment period produced no outside speakers.

After discussion, plan commissioners adopted staff recommendations by roll-call vote; the tally was 8 yes, 1 no.

Staff noted approval is limited to architectural design and that engineering, permitting and construction schedules will proceed under the city’s standard processes.