Columbus Water and Power recognized for biosolids composting; council applauds utility’s reuse program

Columbus City Council on Oct. 6, 2025, adopted a resolution recognizing Columbus Water and Power’s Division of Water Reclamation after the Water Environment Federation named the division an honoree in the Utility of the Future Today program.

Councilmember Wyche invited the division’s administrator and biosolids team to the podium and described the recognition as honoring utilities that establish resilient, sustainable communities. Division of Water Reclamation representatives explained their biosolids reuse program, which combines treated wastewater solids, yard debris and wood chips to produce a nutrient-rich Class A compost through a natural process.

Division administrator Rob Priestess told council the facility is one of 41 utilities nationwide recognized and the only utility in Ohio to receive the recognition. “Our facility has a long history of award winning performance with nine years of a 100% beneficial reuse of our biosolids product,” Priestess said on the record, and he invited councilmembers to tour the compost facility.

Staff at the meeting included assistant administrator Stacia Eckenweiler, residuals manager Josh Lutz and a biosolids specialist identified as Mossberry. Presenters said the program advances resource recovery, supports environmental goals and reduces waste by converting wastewater residuals into a reusable soil amendment.

Councilmembers applauded the team and adopted the recognition resolution by roll call. The resolution itself is ceremonial; Division staff noted operational milestones and extended an open invitation for council to visit the compost facility for a site tour.