7.3. SR 02-06-2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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existing treatment processes to further reduce the TSS, phosphorus, and mercury levels in the effluent water. The expected reductions to the phosphorus, TSS, and mercury levels with these additions will be further evaluated through the facility planning process. Bio-Solids Overview Figure No. 3 identifies the path in which the bio-solids are currently generated and handled at the WWTF. Modifications to the water treatment process, as described above, will result in additional bio- solids production. The existing bio-solids storage tanks and fields are at capacity. Any increase in bio- solids production will result in the need to change the way the bio-solids are handled. We have had discussions with Great River Energy to evaluate the idea of pumping our bio-solids to their facility for incineration. This option, as shown in Figure No. 4, would allow for the entire bio-solids stream to be incinerated at the Great River Energy power plant. This option has tangible benefits for both the City of Elk River and Great River Energy. If this option were put into place, the city would no longer need our existing fields for bio-solids disposal. The wastewater division would also see a reduction in their annual expenses in costs of hauling and spreading the bio-solids on the fields. Furthermore, as proposed, the city would not have to add costly bio-solids storage or handling processes equipment. If the additional storage and handling equipment were to be constructed, it would require the expansion of our WWTF to the south, into Great River Energy's yard. Great River Energy has expressed interest in further evaluating this option. The alternative bio-solids handling option will be further reviewed through the facility planning process. The final approval and implementation will be largely dependent on the MPCA's acceptance. The process will require coordinating changes in our discharge permit and a number of permits that Great River Energy has through the MPCA. Action Request The above described modifications to the water and bio-solids streams, will require the completion of a new facility plan which will then be reviewed by the MPCA. Staff is recommending hiring a firm to assist in the preparation of the facility plan and completion of the application for a new discharge permit. The selected firm will be hired as an expert to assist staff in coordinating these modifications with Great River Energy and the MPCA. FINANCIAL IMPACT There is no financial impact associated with this request. Staff will solicit proposals from qualified firms and bring a recommendation to the City Council for approval. The Capital Improvement Plan includes an estimate for the completion of a Facility Plan in 2012 at a cost of $50,000. ATTACHMENTS ^ Figure No. 1 -Existing Water Effluent Path ^ Figure No. 2 -Proposed Water Effluent Path ^ Figure No. 3 -Existing Bio-Solids Path ^ Figure No. 4 -Proposed Bio-Solids Path Action Motion by Second by Vote Follow Up N:\Public Bodies\Ciry Council\Coundl RCA\Agenda Packet\02-06-2012\WW'1'P.docx