Council authorizes negotiation of IGA to study regional Willamette River treatment plant

City water staff presented a proposal to negotiate an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with Polk County and the City of Independence to fund a feasibility study and pre‑design for a regional surface water treatment plant on the Willamette River.

Russ Cooper explained the rationale: Monmouth, Independence and Polk County hold unused Willamette River surface water rights that must be put to beneficial use or risk forfeiture (Monmouth’s application expires in August 2026). A regional plant could produce economies of scale, position partners for large federal and state grants and help the city maximize its surface water right. Cooper said the feasibility phase would answer whether a shared facility is practical, how capacity and governance would be structured, and what the cost implications are for Monmouth ratepayers.

Councilors and staff discussed affordability, timing and the need for off‑ramps in agreements so Monmouth is not committed to long‑term construction without clear protections. Cooper noted $200,000 in ARPA funds has been set aside for the study and that federal funding mechanisms such as the Water Resources Development Act and congressional appropriations could offset construction costs. He estimated a full plant could cost in the tens of millions; staff emphasized the study is to refine cost and governance options.

Councilor Kerrey moved to authorize the City Manager to negotiate terms of an IGA to complete a feasibility study and pre‑design for a regional treatment plant; Councilor Belts seconded. The council approved the motion by voice vote and directed staff to return the draft IGA for council review before entering any agreement.

The authorization is limited to negotiation and does not commit Monmouth to construction or long‑term costs without further council approval.