The Marion County Board of County Commissioners held a workshop on April 28, 2025, to discuss the Utilities Capital Improvement Program, focusing on the expansion of a wastewater treatment facility. The meeting highlighted plans to increase the facility's footprint while addressing concerns from nearby residents regarding potential impacts.

Commissioners discussed the necessity of relocating certain components of the facility further west to minimize disruption to the surrounding neighborhood. A significant point of discussion was the ownership of land surrounding the facility, with officials noting that while they own a 10-acre tract for construction, there are additional parcels that are not owned by the county, which could pose future challenges if developed.

The expansion will include the addition of biological unit processes, which are designed to improve wastewater treatment. However, some existing structures, such as the "ribs" that manage sewage flow, will remain unchanged. Concerns were raised about odor control, particularly regarding the covering of certain tanks. Officials indicated that while some areas would be covered to mitigate odors, not all units would receive this treatment due to operational challenges.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of creating a buffer zone with landscaping to shield residents from the facility's operations. Suggestions included collaborating with local landscaping experts to select odor-mitigating plants, enhancing the visual appeal of the area, and involving residents in decisions about the buffer's design.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to prioritize moving operations westward and to consider acquiring additional nearby parcels if they become available, ensuring that future development does not encroach on the facility's expansion. The discussions underscored the county's efforts to balance infrastructure needs with community concerns, aiming for a solution that minimizes impact on local residents.