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West Jefferson traces sewage odor to Michael Foods' new equalization tank; village, company and EPA coordinating fixes
Summary
Public works staff reported that a recent sewage odor affecting parts of the village was traced to a newly installed equalization tank at Michael Foods; the company and village are working on pretreatment and discharge adjustments after EPA involvement to protect the village’s wastewater treatment biology.
Village staff told the council April 6 that the recent sewage odor reported in parts of town was identified as coming from a newly constructed equalization tank at the Michael Foods facility.
John, the village Director of Public Service, said the equalization tank was installed to hold batches when the company has an off-spec load, but the protein in the discharge can harm the wastewater plant’s biological treatment process. He reported the EPA has been involved and that Michael Foods and the village are working to resolve odor issues and to ensure pre-treatment before effluent reaches the village sewer system.
John said crews are working with the company to "get their numbers straightened out" and implement necessary pre-treatment so the village’s treatment system is not damaged. Public-works crews are also continuing scheduled pavement and storm-sewer work elsewhere in town while the Michael Foods issue is addressed.
Council did not take formal action during the meeting; staff described ongoing coordination and remediation steps.
