Several repair projects are planned for Duluth’s water treatment plant. The city’s Department of Public Works is proposing a new monthly water infrastructure surcharge of $5 for property owners. This surcharge will begin in May of this year.

Duluth City Councilor Mike Mayou, says most of the water infrastructure repair projects have been planned for quite some time. He says the new surcharge could last potentially up to 20 years, but it’s not likely.

“We’re hoping we can get maybe state and federal support for this to lighten the load. That will reduce the timeline from that 20-year time span,” Mayou said. “It’ll bring that down. But also, that’s mostly paying off the repairs.”

The revenue generated will be used to pay the estimated costs of $42 million in repairs. Current water infrastructure issues fixing the roof and exterior of the Lakewood pumphouse.

One of the main priorities is getting constructing a 6th filter for the city. Jim Benning, the director of public works and utilities says other projects can’t begin until all the filters are online.

“It’s a fairly short window. It’s like 180 days, I think, for our longest one to have these plans done into the EPA,” Benning said. “We’ll know at that time, if they like our timeline or not.”

The purpose of these public meetings will be to discuss the current state of the water utility in Duluth. Staff members of DPUC will explain the proposed water infrastructure surcharge happening in May. They will also receive public comments regarding the proposed surcharge on March 18, 2025 at 5:15 p.m. in City Council Chambers

We have more details about the current water infrastructure repair plans happening in the near future. Also WDIO News has been covering the story about the necessary repairs. Here’s our other story you can read.