The construction of a new wastewater treatment facility in the Town of Bremen could raise utility rates and a public hearing on that topic will be held at the end of February.
Bremen Director of Operations Trend Weldy told MAX News that the Bremen Town Council members received preliminary information Monday night on the construction of the new facility. The council discussed the need for a new plant with JPR President/CEO Ken Jones in 2021 where he recommended the new construction as he said several deficiencies exist with every process at the current 60-year-old facility. It struggles with operations and there are several safety issues.
Weldy said that the estimated cost of a new plant is about $12 million. It would be closer to $16 million with the reconstruction of the interceptor line.
While the town would seek grants and loans to help pay for the construction, the rates may increase at least 40 to 45 percent as a result of this project. Weldy said Bremen currently has the lowest utility rates in the state, but the construction of the new facility would put the town in with the state average in utility rates.
If approved, the project would be constructed in 2024. The current facility would be in operation throughout construction and be deemed obsolete when the new plant is on-line.
A public hearing is set for Monday, February 28 at 4:30 p.m. ET at the Bremen Town Hall to explain the project to residents and the proposed rate increases.
