Title
Briefing on the State of LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Recommended Action
Briefing only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Receive the briefing.
Staff Contact:
Jesse Barham, Water Resources Director. Public Works Water Resources, 360.753.8164
Presenter:
Matt Kennelly, P.E., Executive Director, LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Background and Analysis:
The LOTT Clean Water Alliance (LOTT) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation that provides wastewater treatment for the Olympia community and our three other government partners - the cities of Tumwater and Lacey, as well as Thurston County. LOTT’s mission is to protect public health and the environment by cleaning water and restoring resources for our community. Wastewater flows through City-owned sewer infrastructure to LOTT’s Budd Inlet Treatment Plant, where it is treated and either discharged to Budd Inlet or reclaimed for beneficial uses. The treatment plant is a critical community asset that provides advanced secondary treatment, including nutrient removal to help protect water quality in our local marine waters.
An overview of LOTT’s current operations, recent projects and planning efforts will be provided.
Climate Analysis:
LOTT’s Budd Inlet Treatment Plant is a critical community asset that has a significant carbon footprint due to electrical demands at the treatment plant, primarily driven by pumping and aeration requirements. Recent projects and process improvements have reduced electrical usage. Future projects are planned to further reduce LOTT’s carbon footprint over time. Methane generated in the process is reused in a cogeneration facility to further offset energy use, reduce LOTT’s carbon footprint and provide heating for the neighboring Hands On Children’s Museum.
LOTT is also participating in the sea level rise collaborative work to ensure their critical infrastructure and processes are resilient over the long-term.
Equity Analysis:
LOTT rates have potential impacts on the most vulnerable portions of the Olympia community - those with the least ability to pay. LOTT’s services also protect the environmental and human health of these communities. LOTT has a pilot program to discount connection fees for low-income housing projects and participates in city/community action council administered utility assistance programs to address financial hardships for eligible customers.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
LOTT provides essential public and environmental health services by providing advanced wastewater treatment to the Olympia community and other partner governments.
Financial Impact:
None at this time. The City collects LOTT rates and connection fee revenues on LOTT’s behalf. LOTT rates and fees are set every two years in the biennial budget cycle by their four-member Board of Directors, an elected representative from each partner government.
Attachment:
Weblink to LOTT 2050 System Plan