City staff authorized to negotiate purchase of Columbia County industrial‑park wastewater plant

City Manager Rosenthal told the council that the city has an opportunity to acquire a wastewater treatment plant tied to the Columbia County Mega Industrial Park and asked for permission to negotiate with Columbia County and its representative, David Krause.

Rosenthal said the total purchase and associated financial plan under consideration would be about $7 million and that the handout provided at the meeting contains project details. Council members expressed support; Councilman Carter said the move fits the city’s utility business role and could alleviate pressure on other parts of the system.

Council provided a consensus direction for staff to negotiate with the county and report back; no formal vote or contract was approved at the meeting.