Title
State of LOTT Clean Water Alliance Briefing
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on the State of LOTT Clean Water Alliance.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive a briefing on the State of LOTT Clean Water Alliance.
Staff Contact:
Susan Grisham, Assistant to the City Manager, 360.753.8244
Presenter(s):
Matt Kennelly, P.E., Executive Director, LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Background and Analysis:
LOTT Clean Water Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that provides wastewater treatment services for the City of Olympia and its partner governments. LOTT’s mission is to protect public health and the environment by cleaning and restoring water resources for our communities. Wastewater is conveyed via City-owned infrastructure to LOTT’s Budd Inlet Treatment Plant, where it undergoes advanced secondary treatment. The treated water is either discharged into Budd Inlet or reclaimed for beneficial uses.
The Budd Inlet Treatment Plant is a vital public asset, ensuring high-level treatment to support local marine water quality. This briefing will provide an overview of LOTT’s operations, recent projects, and future planning efforts.
Climate Analysis:
LOTT’s Budd Inlet Treatment Plant has a notable carbon footprint, primarily due to its high electrical demands and methane production during treatment processes. However, recent upgrades and operational changes have reduced energy use. LOTT is actively pursuing additional projects to further cut emissions and enhance energy efficiency.
Methane generated during treatment is reused on-site in a cogeneration facility, offsetting energy use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, LOTT is participating in regional sea level rise planning to ensure the resilience of its infrastructure and services.
Equity Analysis:
LOTT’s rate structures can impact lower-income residents who may face challenges in affording utility services. At the same time, LOTT’s services play a critical role in protecting the health and environmental conditions of these communities. To address affordability, LOTT has implemented a pilot program that discounts connection fees for low-income housing projects. The agency also participates in utility assistance programs managed by the City and the Community Action Council to support income-eligible customers.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
LOTT provides essential public services that directly support both environmental and human health throughout Olympia and its partner jurisdictions. High-quality wastewater treatment is foundational to maintaining community well-being and sustainable growth.
Financial Impact:
None at this time. The City collects LOTT rates and connection fee revenues on their behalf. LOTT rates and fees are set by the LOTT board every 2 years in their biennial budget cycle.
Options:
1. Receive a briefing on the State of LOTT Clean Water Alliance.
2. Do not receive a briefing on the State of LOTT Clean Water Alliance.
3. Take other action.
Attachments:
Presentation