Ortt Calls for Emergency Funding for the North Tonawanda Wastewater Treatment Plant

North Tonawanda, N.Y. – Today, New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt called on Gov. Kathy Hochul to include Emergency Funding for the City of North Tonawanda wastewater treatment plant in this year’s Executive Budget. 

“After speaking with the City of North Tonawanda Common Council, it is apparent that these funds are needed due to countless issues with the wastewater treatment plant,” said Sen. Ortt. “The emergency funding will upgrade the wastewater treatment plant through the installation of various new pumps and machinery and help eliminate persistent flooding within the plant. We must take immediate measures to ensure that wastewater from the city can be safely disposed of and protect those who currently operate within the water treatment facility.” 

Many of the current systems at the wastewater treatment plant are either at the end of their proper life cycle or inadequate compared to current guidelines and recommendations. This, in turn, inhibits the City of North Tonawanda’s ability to meet DEC requirements and maintain the reliability and resiliency of the plant. Some of these deficiencies were cited in a Notice of Violation by the New York State DEC and are required to ensure that the treatment plant operates within current regulations.

 “This emergency funding is an absolute priority for me,” said Sen. Ortt. “Not only will it will help address our city’s community and economic development needs by maintaining a high-quality water standard, but it is also critical for the continued health and safety of our city's residents.”

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