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Lewistown approves DEQ settlement, corrective actions after plant violations
Summary
The Commission approved a DEQ settlement totaling $3,150 (mostly forgiven) and committed staff and engineers to corrective actions to resolve wastewater plant and stormwater permit issues; the city attorney noted options to contest but commissioners supported acceptance.
City Manager Holly Phelps presented a DEQ proposed settlement to resolve violations at the Lewistown wastewater treatment plant that included a total fine of $3,150 with most of the amount forgiven and an agreed corrective action plan. Phelps said many corrective items have already been addressed and the remainder will be handled by plant staff and engineers.
City Attorney Tyler West described the settlement as an administrative instrument the city could contest or negotiate, but cautioned the process is largely one‑sided; Wastewater Operator Mike Howell said staff thought the settlement was fair in light of the plant’s ongoing projects and past timeline challenges. Commissioner Hrubes moved to approve the settlement and Commissioner Spika seconded; the motion passed unanimously.
The commission directed staff to coordinate with engineers and DEQ to complete the corrective action schedule within the stated timelines and to seek attorney input if specific legal concerns arise.
