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Council authorizes new wastewater-cost sharing with WSU after study drops university’s share to 28%
Summary
Following a flow-and-loading study, council authorized resolution R-18-26 to execute a new interlocal agreement with Washington State University that reduces WSU’s share of wastewater treatment and interceptor costs from 36.4% to 28%, a change staff estimate will lower WSU’s annual contribution by about $275,000.
Pullman City Council on June 9 approved an interlocal agreement with Washington State University that sets WSU’s share of costs for the city wastewater treatment plant and interceptor lines at 28%, down from the prior 36.4%.
Deputy Public Works Clayton summarized the multi-year review of flow and pollutant-loading data completed in late 2024 and spring 2025 and said the new study “determined that WSU’s contribution and their share is now 28%.” He told council the revised share is effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2045 and that staff estimate WSU’s annual contribution will drop by about $275,000 under the new split.
Clayton said the interlocal includes a provision allowing either party to request a review of proration splits, but not more than once every three years, to address major enrollment or loading changes. He also said staff are preparing a utility rate study to examine rate and fee schedules to address the reduced revenue.
Council authorized resolution R-18-26 to execute the interlocal agreement. Council members asked about alternatives to rate increases and broader financial impacts; staff said a future rate discussion would return to council if needed.
