Connell staff outline engineering plan for damaged wastewater lagoons; council hears recommendation to hire engineers

City staff presented inspection findings that show visible structural and liner damage in cells of the municipal wastewater lagoons and recommended hiring licensed engineers to design and oversee repairs.

The presenter (public-works staff) said Department of Ecology inspection photos document torn liners, broken "welds" around effluent pipes, loose tie straps and erosion/sloughing in Cells 2 and 3. The presenter said the liner installations date to about 25 years ago and that the liner life expectancy is roughly 25–35 years; some components are failing and require repair or partial replacement. Staff said a lining contractor and the Department of Ecology have already inspected the site and that further evaluation is needed to decide whether to replace full liner sections or conduct targeted repairs.

Staff recommended issuing a task order for licensed professional-engineering services (Anderson and Perry, the city’s long-time engineering firm) to perform a preliminary investigation, site evaluation, design of embankment and HDPE liner repairs, coordination with the Department of Ecology, and preparation of construction drawings and bid documents. The presenter said the engineers would also help with permitting and provide construction oversight to ensure regulatory compliance and long-term performance.

Council heard the presentation and asked questions about scope and timing. The provided transcript records the recommendation and technical detail but does not include a recorded vote on a task order or contract authorization within the available segment of the meeting; staff indicated this task order is recommended so that the city can determine the appropriate repair scope and cost.