Bobkiewicz agreed but noted that the city would set a date, time and provide directions but “I don’t think it would be appropriate for the city to provide transportation.”Chartering a bus for the field inspection to be held in Riverside is a possibility said Luna, but Bobkiewicz said it is doubtful if that many people would want to go.The new facility is estimated to cost about $40 million, and “It will be the people paying for the plant,” noted Luna.Outreach to those living near the existing plant is vital said Councilman John Procter.Two mobile home parks near Corporation Yard could be noticed through their community rooms, said Vice Mayor Mary Ann Krause.Chamber of Commerce members and those others “who will be influential in seeing the benefits of a new plant but also have to accept the cost,” must be updated, she added.The council – and whatever citizens who would like to also attend – will be visiting the City of Riverside to observe its wetlands, City of Corona which utilities MBR, activated sludge and an oxidation ditch process, the Eastern Municipal Water District which has two plants and the Ojai Sanitary Water District’s oxidation ditch.
Update on wastewater treatment plant, tours planned
June 18, 2004
Santa Paula City Council
The City Council heard an update on the progress of the new wastewater treatment plant that could be built in the same area as Corporation Yard, the site of the existing aging facility.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe City Council heard an update on the progress of the new wastewater treatment plant that could be built in the same area as Corporation Yard, the site of the existing aging facility.Public Works Director/City Engineer Cliff Finley offered the update at the June 7 meeting, noting that key project consultants have been hired, meetings are continuing with other agencies such as United Water Conservation District, property sites have been identified and the environmental process is underway. Also in the works are tours of facilities that show the workings of the different treatment processes.The proposal to jointly operate a treatment plant with Fillmore has been abandoned due to “fatal flaws” and the council will be asked to take a field trip to various facilities to gauge the three different treatment methods that could be utilized by Santa Paula’s new plant.Finley noted that key features of a state-of-the-art facility would feature odor control, a screen or buffer to shield the plant, cost-effective and reliable processes and plans. Also provided would be space to centrally locate not only the city’s Corporation Yard but also house the water yard operations and equipment to “achieve economies of scale.”The draft Environmental Impact Review is expected to be completed by Sept. 15, certification could occur in January 2005, permitting is targeted for March, funding secured in 2006 and the new plant built in 2008.City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz noted that council field trips could involve citizens: “The first question is how broad a group would you like to take?”Community inclusion must be a priority, said Councilman Ray Luna.
