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Paynesville council approves one‑time reduction of Ampi’s BOD surcharge to $35,000
Summary
After reviewing a letter from Ampi and Public Works recommendations, the council approved a one-time reduction of an elevated BOD surcharge from about $58,000 to $35,000 with the condition this is a single adjustment; motion passed unanimously.
The Paynesville City Council approved a one-time reduction to a BOD surcharge billed to Ampi, lowering the charge from roughly $58,000 to $35,000 and noting that the adjustment is intended as a single, non‑recurring accommodation.
City staff explained that Ampi’s monthly S.E. charges are typically in the $115,000 range and that the company’s reported BOD levels exceeded their permit allocation (the limit cited was 4,500 lb of BOD per month). Staff and Public Works reviewed the facility’s readings and recommended a one‑time partial forgiveness. Council member Paul asked for verification that the high readings were not caused by programming or equipment failures; staff said Ampi is inspecting its facility and that the recommended discount is a one‑time adjustment contingent on their corrective actions.
Council member Neil Herberg moved to reduce the Ampi bill to $35,000, noting the adjustment should be recorded as a single, one‑time action; Council member Brick seconded the motion. The motion carried on a unanimous voice vote.
The council directed that the reduction be documented as conditional and emphasized that similar future overages would be the facility’s responsibility unless a different determination is made based on evidence of system failure.
The council also noted the planned Phase II capital project at the wastewater facility to address future capacity and compliance issues.
