Storm Lake, IA – The Storm Lake City Council has rejected all bids for a critical project to replace blowers at its Wastewater Treatment Plant due to a massive financial shortfall.

Assistant City Manager David Derragon addressed the council Monday

Council members asked why the bids were significantly higher than the city’s funding and initial estimates. Project Manager Tom Graff attributed the cost spike to outdated project timelines and federal “Build America” requirements.

 

Following the recommendation to reject the bids, the council opted to postpone the blower replacement. Graff assured them of the current status.

The city will now explore the possibility of a future bond to finance a larger project that would include these upgrades as well as broader nutrient reduction improvements for the plant.