The Houston board of aldermen heard presentations Monday from an engineering and bonding firm as the city begins to develop a plan to construct a major upgrade to its wastewater treatment plant.
The price tag? As much as $3.9 million to transform the 1970s-era sewer operation to comply with federal and state guidelines governing its use. Houston voters could face a bond issue to pay a portion of the cost as early as June.
The plan was outlined Monday during a lengthy council session that saw presentations by the city’s engineering firm, Hood-Rich Architects; a bonding firm, McLiney and Company, Kansas City; and Carson Law Firm, Springfield, which has expertise in bond issues.
In addition to the bond issue, which would require a simple majority for passage, the city hopes to tap low-interest loan funds and a $500,000 grant triggered by the bond proceeds.
If all goes to plan, the facility would be completed by late 2009.
Mayor Steve Hutcheson said the city examined three design options for the work, which is designed to address guidelines that are becoming stricter for compliance. Ultimately, waiting longer would translate into additional costs to bring the plant along Brushy Creek into compliance, he said.
The exact location of the plant has not been determined. One option on the table would drain a lagoon and realign the current facility