(BRONSON) – Another step has been taken for the City of Bronson to get a state revolving loan to help with their wastewater collection system project.

The City of Bronson was issued a violation notice by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy in October 2019. Since July 2022, Bronson has been working with the State of Michigan to fix violations of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. This is because of excessive storm water flows that caused the Bronson Waste Water Treatment Plant to go over its design capacity by approximately 500,000 gallons a day.

Following an April 10 public hearing, EGLE issued a a Finding Of No Significant Impact And Environmental Assessment. In addition they also issued a notice for 30 days public comment last Wednesday.

Bronson is applying for a 30 year low interest Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan of up to $10 million to help finance improvements to the collection system. Because of the project, a user rate increase of up to $19 a month could be required.

Bronson City Manager Brandon Mersman says the repairs are expected to take place sometime in 2025. The final plans from the engineering firm are expected to be finalized and delivered by the end of April.