We learned more Tuesday about on-going issues at the Northwest Water treatment facility and efforts to correct them.
Independent contractors have identified two issues with the solid contact clarifiers at the plant. Contractors will make temporary repairs on one clarifier by the end of February, so the plant can be restarted and city staff can continue training. Permanent repairs are slated this spring, with plant testing beginning in May. There's still no firm date for final completion.
A report the council received late last week alleged the city waived millions of dollars in late fees for the contractor. Public works director Gary Janzen explained once the plant reached substantial completion in September 2024, liquidated damages didn't extend past that point.
The city filed a claim on April 2, 2025 when the final completion deadline was missed. The city believes all costs that are owed due to the plant’s delay will be recovered.