Woodbury seeks tax exemption for water treatment facility amid PFAS crisis

Woodbury is set to tackle its water quality challenges head-on, thanks to a proposed bill aimed at reducing the financial burden of a new water treatment facility and water tower. During a recent meeting of the Minnesota Legislature's Committee on Taxes, officials discussed the pressing need for infrastructure improvements in response to PFAS pollution affecting the city's water supply.

The bill, introduced by Senator Rest, seeks to exempt construction materials and supplies from sales tax for the new facility, which is crucial for addressing the contamination issues. This exemption is expected to significantly lower project costs, with the city facing a funding gap of up to $35 million despite support from the 3M settlement fund.

Mary Van Milligan, Woodbury's Public Works Director, emphasized the city's long-standing commitment to water conservation and quality. She highlighted the proactive measures taken over the past decade, including implementing a tiered water rate structure and temporary water treatment solutions. However, the discovery of PFAS in the water system has necessitated a more permanent solution.

The proposed legislation would not only facilitate the construction of a permanent water treatment plant and tower but also support the installation of 17 miles of necessary pipelines. The bill is designed to be effective from January 31, 2024, through December 1, 2028, and aims to alleviate the financial strain on Woodbury residents caused by external pollution sources.

As the committee considers this bill, the city of Woodbury remains hopeful for a favorable outcome that will enable them to provide safe, clean water to their community while minimizing costs. The discussions underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing environmental challenges and ensuring public health.