Wellington's Village Council has set ambitious goals for its water infrastructure, focusing on a significant transition to advanced membrane treatment technology. During the recent CIP Budget Workshop, officials emphasized the importance of replacing the aging lime plant, built in the 1980s, with a state-of-the-art nano filtration system. This upgrade aims to effectively remove harmful contaminants, including PFAS, in response to new EPA regulations expected to be finalized by 2031.

The council is prioritizing essential rehabilitation and replacement projects, with a particular focus on a meter replacement initiative and improvements to Booster Station 1, which is also due for an upgrade. The total proposed funding for the upcoming fiscal year stands at $14.65 million, which includes $4 million earmarked for the meter replacement project. This project is crucial as the current meters, last replaced in 2009, are nearing the end of their operational lifespan and are losing accuracy.

Additionally, the council plans to utilize low-interest funding options, such as the state revolving loan fund, to support these projects. The funding strategy also includes a settlement from a PFAS lawsuit, which will be integrated into the budget.

The workshop highlighted the ongoing need for infrastructure improvements, particularly in the water distribution system, with $3.2 million allocated for the Booster Station 1 improvement project and $400,000 for mandatory water tank cleaning. The council is also moving forward with the expansion of the Southern Well Field, which will involve constructing five new wells to meet growing water supply demands.

As Wellington prepares for these critical upgrades, the council remains committed to ensuring the community's water supply is safe, reliable, and capable of supporting future growth. The next steps will involve finalizing contracts with selected vendors and continuing to seek funding opportunities to enhance the village's water infrastructure.