SUBJECT
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Consideration to authorize the Utilities Department to submit an application for funding through the Texas Water Development Board’s (TWDB) Emerging Contaminants for Small or Disadvantaged Communities (EC-SDC) program. Funds requested will be allocated toward identification of a treatment plant to address contaminated water sources to ensure effective removal of harmful substances and protect public health. If awarded, the grant would cover costs at 100%.There is no financial impact as this time.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
NA
BACKGROUND
The City of Laredo is undertaking a comprehensive project to address emerging contaminant risks identified in our primary water supply at two water treatment plants, Jefferson WTP and El Pico WTP. Quarterly UCMFR sampling tests conducted in 2023 revealed the presence of Lithium and PFBA contaminants, posing a risk to site groundwater and potential migration to surrounding surface water bodies. The proposed project will support planning, additional testing and monitoring, and the development of a treatment action plan to effectively address these contaminants. The resulting action plan will identify the most effective treatment options the City should consider for addressing both Lithium and PFBA levels. This project aligns with EC-SDC goals which aim to reduce emerging contaminant exposure by identifying and implementing effective treatment solutions for contaminated drinking water systems.
The project estimated costs are shown below:
|
Engineering |
$250,000.00 |
|
General, Legal, Financial |
$120,000.00 |
|
Contingency |
$37,500.00 |
|
Monitoring Equipment |
$375,000.00 |
|
Total |
$782,500.00 |
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: NA
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies): NA
Summary of alignment:
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
None.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
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It is recommended that this request be approved.
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N N/A
Source of Funds: N/A
Account #: N/A
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Project financing is structured through the TWDB at 100% grant funded.