City outlines steps to meet new chloride limits; rebate offered for removing water softeners

City wastewater and Public Works staff told the Finance Committee that a new discharge permit requires lowering effluent chloride below 400 milligrams per liter and set a compliance focus on source reductions.

Public Works staff said weekly average effluent chloride readings are trending downward but not yet in the target band (staff cited a green zone between roughly 250–300 mg/L). The city is continuing a softener‑rebate program (about $150 for households that remove softeners and submit proof) and is conducting outreach to high‑water users and businesses to optimize or remove softeners. A staff handout showed weekly chloride data and the city described extending the program into 2026 if necessary.

Staff said chloride is not removed in wastewater treatment and thus source reduction is required; they noted approximately 10,000 residential softeners were estimated in the city and that winter salting practices and road salts also contribute to chloride loads. The department said the DNR target is to meet the mandated level by the end of next year (November). "Tell them to remove their softener, please," an official urged; staff acknowledged the public‑behavior change required.

The committee discussed options such as municipal outreach, incentives, and legislative changes limiting salt application; staff said some proposed state legislative changes to reduce contractor liability have stalled but may be revisited.

Next steps: staff will continue the softener rebate, work with high‑use commercial customers, and monitor weekly chloride readings. The committee did not vote on a new regulation at the meeting; staff framed the items as implementation steps to meet an existing permit requirement.