Council approves purchase of screw press to improve wastewater dewatering, cut hauling costs

Public Works told council the plant's current belt press delivers marginal dewatering (7–11% solids) and that a demonstrated screw press produced >20% solids during a weeklong trial. Staff recommended ordering a custom screw press sized for up to 4 million gallons per day to accommodate current and future plant loads. The council approved the equipment purchase to begin manufacturing; separate contractor work to modify and install the unit will follow and is expected to be funded from sewer reserves.

Staff estimated equipment cost around $413,000; installation and building modifications are additional and the overall project is expected to reduce hauling costs by roughly 70% and lower operational risk during high flow seasons. The screw press manufacturer will provide installation support; full contractor procurement and installation will be pursued after manufacturing lead time (five to six months).