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Council seeks answers after wastewater treatment bacteria killed; staff, plant offer inspection
Summary
Council and staff said lab samples suggest contaminants are killing bacteria in Buckner's wastewater treatment system; the nearby plant named in discussion denies a sewer connection and offered an inspection. Staff said the system is 'dead' of microorganisms and the city has paid about $3,000 per sludge pump-out while it resolves the issue.
Council members and staff discussed lab findings that appear to show chemical agents inconsistent with preservatives used by a nearby wood-processing operation, prompting concern that the contaminants are sterilizing the city wastewater treatment system.
Chair (S1) and Presenter (S6) described communications with the plant's attorney and operations staff, who told the city they were not connected to Buckner's sewer line and said they reuse their process mix rather than discharge it. The plant's representatives offered a tour or inspection. Staff (S5) recounted lab sample locations and explained that samples taken off a service line near the plant showed the presence of the agents that were of concern to the city.
Council members pointed out immediate operational impacts: plant bacteria appear absent, forcing the city to bring in sludge-removal services (staff cited roughly $3,000 per pump-out) and delaying reintroduction of reed plants the facility was expecting. Staff proposed meeting this week with the plant to inspect lines and trace the source; officials said turning off service to the plant is an available but undesired option if contamination continues.
Next steps: staff to meet with the plant this week, inspect the sampling locations, and report back to council with findings and recommended remedial actions.
