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Council authorizes staff to reopen talks about transferring Foster wastewater plant to county water and sewer district
Summary
Council directed staff to begin talks with the Lancaster County Water and Sewer District about transferring the Foster Wastewater Treatment Plant after officials cited years of operating costs and needed pipe repairs; no formal motion to transfer was made.
Council discussed the potential transfer of the Foster Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Lancaster County Water and Sewer District and directed staff to reopen conversations with the district to return with parameters and any required ordinance language.
Councilmember Willis reviewed the plant’s history and condition, saying it was built before home rule and functions as a package plant with a lagoon that primarily serves the Foster industrial area. Willis reported county operating costs of $74,189 so far this fiscal year and noted four‑year operating costs have ranged roughly from $75,513 to $91,689. He also said the collection system needs extensive work and noted a 2021 estimate of about $440,000 for cured‑in‑place pipe work; he said he does not know current replacement cost estimates.
Councilmembers expressed support for pursuing discussions with the water and sewer district, which has certified wastewater operators and views the operating permit as valuable. Willis said any transfer would require county ordinance and the district’s board approval; staff will bring back parameters and, if appropriate, draft ordinance language for council consideration.
No formal transfer motion was made; council instructed staff to begin negotiations and report back.
