ROTHSCHILD, WI (WSAU) — The Rothschild Water Utility Commission has given initial approval for the outline of a potential addition to their drinking water treatment plant designed to remove PFAS.
Public Works Administrator Timothy Vergara says it’s a very preliminary step in their fight against the forever chemicals. “Basically it’s the footprint for our proposed future treatment facility- an add-on to our current water treatment plant,” said Vergara.
The vote did not serve as final approval to build the facility. Vergara says there is still work to be done to determine what kind of treatment system works best to remove PFAS from their water supply. He says right now they are deciding between a granular activated carbon system and an ion exchange system.
“Once we’ve determined that, then we can refine our system. Finalize our design, and build around it,” added Vergara.
Those plans will come back to the Commission for approval at a later time. Vergara says that means the earliest they can begin construction would be sometime in 2024.
The proposed facility would be built in a way that allows for the addition of a chloride treatment element as well, should the village choose to install one at a later date.
Vergara adds that they are still working on financing for the project as well including grant applications. Village Administrator Ryan VanDeWalle has previously told WSAU News that they are looking to secure as much outside funding as possible before going to the ratepayers, meaning it’s unclear how the project will impact utility bills.
Comments