City asks EPA to extend time for sewer overhaul

1/27/2011

Toledo Mayor Mike Bell has asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency about the feasibility of extending the time line to complete a federally mandated sewer overhaul meant to keep raw sewage out of waterways.

Mr. Bell spoke with EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson during his trip to Washington Jan. 19-21 for the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Toledo City Council this week rejected proposed hikes in water and sewer rates the Bell administration has sought in part to help pay for $521 million in sewer upgrades mandated by a federal consent decree started in 2005.

Toledo City Councilman Joe McNamara has pressed the administration to ask for more time to finish the upgrade. The city has received one four-year extension, prolonging the project to 2020.