Demonstration Project at Hanover Park Water Reclamation Plant Approved by MWRD Board

MWRD Board Meeting - February 18, 2016
Length: 1 hour

Significant Topic Discussed:
There was interesting discussion about the District negotiating  and entering into a contract with Clearas Water Recovery Inc. for a period of five years. (Agenda Item #9)  This company has a proprietary process for the removal and recovery of phosphorus and nitrogen from effluent using algae. The interesting part of this process is that the byproduct is algae biomass, which can be harvested and and converted into a saleable commodity (bioplastics and bio-based industrial acids).  Due to its size, the Hanover Park WRP is better suited for installation of this demonstration project therefore this process will be piloted at the Hanover Park WRP.  There were questions from two commissioners on money generated from sales, ability to exit contract, and other byproducts that could be harvested from the process. 

Other Observations:
The meeting began with a resolution to recognize the 23rd Annual African American Contractors Association Annual Membership Awards.  This was followed by recognition by the Government Finance Officers’s Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award to the District for 2015 Excellence in Financial Reporting.  The District has received this award for 31 consecutive years!

The consent agenda contained 47 items, with one item deleted.  The Board approved all consent items presented. 

Observer: Peggy Kell