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Hermiston staff seek new industrial pre‑treatment authority to protect sewer system
Summary
City staff presented proposed municipal code changes to create an industrial pre‑treatment program that would let Hermiston permit industrial dischargers, require sampling/meters and enforce limits; Oregon DEQ has pre‑vetted the language and the council will consider adoption in an upcoming meeting.
Hermiston public‑works staff introduced a package of code changes the city plans to bring to council for adoption to create an industrial pre‑treatment program for commercial users. Staff said the program would give the city explicit authority to require permits, set application fees and fines, and perform site inspections where necessary to prevent pollutants from harming the sewer system or passing through to downstream waters regulated by Oregon DEQ.
A consultant explained the practical triggers for regulation: dischargers with high flow or non‑municipal‑strength waste (examples cited included breweries, wineries, tanneries, data centers and dental offices with amalgam). The presenter said the city will use an applicant survey and targeted sampling to identify who needs oversight. "In order to be able to send us your water, you have to treat it before you send it to us," the presenter said to illustrate how permit limits and sampling will be applied. Staff said Anderson Perry has prepared the recommended code language and DEQ has pre‑vetted the draft; council members asked clarifying questions about enforcement and DEQ checkpoints ahead of a forthcoming adoption vote.
