NORMAN, Okla. (AP) - Norman and Midwest City leaders are at odds over a proposal to allow treated wastewater into a lake they use as a drinking supply.
The Norman utilities director, Ken Komiske, said the project is only in its early stages, noting that it’s a decade away from being implemented. He said an engineering study to research the concept is in its first phase and that the project would have to undergo a thorough verification process, The Oklahoman (https://bit.ly/1E0bHrP ) reported.
Members of the Midwest City Council recently passed a resolution that opposes letting treated wastewater flow into Lake Thunderbird. The Midwest City environmental services director, William Janacek, said the water could still have unregulated contaminants like personal care products.
Norman city officials say they don’t want those pollutants in the water either but argue the possibility of reusing treated wastewater should be researched.
“Any proposal would have to use the most advanced technology to eliminate those and other contaminants,” Komiske said. “But to shut down a study on such a proposal is premature. We need to look at all our options.”
Midwest City Mayor Dee Collins said the council took a position on the matter so residents could know what’s being considered. Norman Mayor Cindy Rosenthal said the study is “due diligence” on Norman’s part in an effort to collect all facts.
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Information from: The Oklahoman, https://www.newsok.com
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