Poplar sewer operator warns proposed WPDES changes could raise costs; commission approves charge for school effluent

Josh Pearson, operator in charge for the Village of Poplar, told the Sewer Commission on April 9 that the village’s Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit renewal includes proposed changes that could increase testing and treatment costs.

Pearson said the permit "was not going to be ready until 2027, but it will be approved before then," and that he and consultant MSA are working on the village’s behalf to avoid conditions that would be unduly stringent. He identified several areas of concern in the draft requirements, including a proposed reduction in allowable phosphorus from 7.0 mg/L to 6.1 mg/L, new PFAS sampling that would raise laboratory costs, and the possible addition of seasonal disinfection tied to E. coli limits.

Commission members discussed operational impacts and budget implications. The Commission voted to adopt a charge of $40 per pound to remove phosphorus from the Maple School District’s effluent when it measures above 5.0 mg/L. The motion — made by Dan Bergsten and seconded by Adam DeMeyer — passed "without negative vote," according to the minutes; the exact tally was not recorded.

Pearson also reported routine operations items, including a failure of an elementary pump caused by underwear flushed into the system and a scheduled spring preventative maintenance service. He said he has contacted MSA about the permit concerns and will continue working with the consultant as the draft is finalized.

Next steps: the commission will monitor the WPDES renewal process and implement the new school surcharge for phosphorus removal as approved.