Cherokee, IA (NorthwestIowaNow.com) — Cherokee’s wastewater treatment plant is facing serious issues after the Little Sioux River flooded the plant last summer. High water damaged key valves, and there’s a real risk the whole system could go down.

At a city council meeting on February 25th, the council had to decide on a temporary fix to meet Department of Natural Resources regulations. ISG, the engineering firm contracted by the city, presented two options: an activated sludge plant costing $1,469,225, or an aerated lagoon system for $1,197,500.

Council members, after hearing the options, moved forward with the aerated lagoon system. A motion by Council member Loughlin, seconded by Council member Pingel, passed with a unanimous vote. They felt it was the quicker, more cost-effective way to handle the immediate problem. Now, ISG will work on getting the necessary permits from the DNR and will start setting up the new aerated lagoon system.

This temporary fix will keep the wastewater treatment running while the city figures out a long-term plan to prevent future problems. The city is under pressure to move quickly, as the DNR has emphasized the need for a clear plan of action to maintain compliance.