Reports Concerning the WWTP Spills of June 17 and 19

By Terry E. Cohen, Council Member

The two files you can review with this post relate to the most recent Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) spills in June. On June 24, I followed up my questions posed between the two spills by asking for copies of the City's report to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). The first file, City Report to MDE is that report, dated June 20, 2008.

The second file, Sewer Spills Report to Council June 25 2008 is a more general response by the administration (particular author not shown, but sent to us by Mr. Pick) addressing accountability questions and next steps for reducing risk of further incidents. Both files were sent to council on June 25 by Mr. Pick, and I appreciate his follow up.

While some of this information is of a technical nature, it may provide concerned members of the public some insight into what is taking place with the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), administrative action and involvement by the MDE. In addition to all of us wanting accountability and prevention for the health of the Wicomico River, the public's trust and confidence in their government is strengthened when we can talk openly and straightforward about problems when they occur. I hope sharing these files will contribute to achieving those goals.