Voters in West Rutland on Town Meeting Day will decide whether to fund a $2.3 million upgrade to the wastewater treatment plant.

By Jack Aicher, for the Community News Service

The town of West Rutland is proposing a $2.3 million upgrade to its wastewater treatment facility, with the intent of extending its lifespan by 20 years and improving efficiency.

The town-wide bond vote will take place on Town Meeting Day, March 4.

Since its last upgrade in 1999, the facility has continued to operate efficiently, with the only major update being a UV treatment system replacement last year.

Now, town officials say that the facility requires replacing control systems, mechanical and electrical components, and making structural repairs and improvements. These improvements are intended to improve efficiency, reliability and ensure safety, officials said.

“Upgrading our town’s wastewater treatment facility is a necessary investment for the health, safety and future sustainability of our community,” said Mary Ann Goulette, town manager, in an email response. “By improving our wastewater treatment capabilities, we will protect public health, preserve our environment, comply with regulations, and support economic growth.”

According to officials, many of the system components are outdated and have become obsolete, making maintenance more challenging. The updates are intended to ensure consistent wastewater treatment, reduce maintenance challenges and extend the facility’s lifespan, they said.

“Investing in an upgrade now ensures a healthier, more sustainable future for the town while avoiding costly emergency repairs and environmental damage,” said Seth Pietryka, wastewater and water superintendent. “Our plant has done a great job for 25 years now and with these upgrades in the bond vote, the plant will be good for another 20 years.”

Select Board Chair John Harvey echoed Pietryka and Goulette.

“The upgrade is to gain 20 more years than the system that we have,” he said. “It’s been a multi-year planning process.”

The town anticipates financing through the State of Vermont’s Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund (CWSRF), with potential loan forgiveness. The estimated annual cost per user is $120, based on a 2% interest rate over 20 years, with no subsidy.

After the March 4 bond vote, if approved, the bidding process will begin this fall with a projected construction completion of summer 2026.

A public meeting will be held at 6 p.m. March 3 in the Town Hall Auditorium, 35 Marble St., where officials will provide further details and answer questions. All registered voters in the town of West Rutland can cast their ballots on March 4, with polls open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the designated polling location.

Via Community News Service, in partnership with Vermont State University Castleton.