DES MOINES – The DNR is holding public meetings across the state to gather input on proposed changes to laws regarding wastewater permits for economically disadvantaged communities.
In order to ensure that no community or entity is required to install a wastewater treatment system that causes substantial and widespread economic and social impact and to ensure that pollutants are not discharged unless authorized by a permit, the proposed amendments allow a community or entity that qualifies as disadvantaged more time to consider treatment options and to seek funding. This additional time allowance, as included in a compliance schedule or agreement, ensures that the community or entity can explore affordable treatment options.
Meetings will be held as follows, listed alphabetically by town:
Des Moines: Sept. 5, 10 a.m. to noon, fourth floor conference rooms of the Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. Ninth St.
Fairfield: Sept. 11, 4 to 6 p.m., Fairfield Public Library, 104 West Adams Street
Independence: Sept. 6, 4 to 6 p.m., Independence Public Library, 805 First St. East
Storm Lake: Aug. 30, 4 to 6 p.m., Storm Lake Public Library, 609 Cayuga St.
Those not able to attend the meetings can submit written comments through Sept. 14 to: Courtney Cswercko, NPDES Section, DNR, 502 East Ninth St., Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0034; or sent by fax to 515-281-8895 or by email to
courtney.cswercko@dnr.iowa.gov. Questions may also be directed to Cswercko by email or by phone at 515-281-7206.