Fort Lupton City Council appeared on the verge of moving toward Metropolitan Wastewater District as its partner for mandatory repairs of the city’s wastewater treatment plant.  

During an Aug. 31 study session, the council wanted to proceed with a resolution that states its support for the district to provide the service. The city has to spend $38 million to upgrade the plant. The state public health department is requiring Fort Lupton – and other cities – to clean up the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and chlorophyll in surface water.  

“It’s pretty standard,” said public works Director Roy Vestal of the ordinance. “It’s in accordance with the welfare of the community and says we want to be included in the district.”  

Vestal also told the council “There wasn’t a lot of give and take on their side” concerning the service agreement, “but we did what we could.”  

Earlier this spring, Councilman Tommy Holton objected to the city’s lack of voting power with Metro’s 25-member board. Company officials said the city’s representation depends on population, about 8,000 residents in the city.  

“This is a pre-contract,” Vestal told councilors. “This ordinance is for us to execute the contract.”  

Vestal also had some good news for the council. The state granted an extension to finish the plant repairs by July 1, 2024.  

“It gives us an extra 18 months to get our tests in order to make a submission to the health department,” Vestal said.

The next chance for the council to discuss the resolution was Sept. 7, after press time.  

Clean-up day turns into clean-up month  

The city of Fort Lupton's annual clean-up day will involve an October voucher program.  

Vestal said the running average of positive COVID-19 tests was too high to allow for an in-person event next month.  

The pick-up day for senior citizens and the disabled is Thursday, Sep. 23. City officials said that date won’t change. Call City Hall to schedule pickup at 303-857-6694.  

Visit https://www.fortluptonco.gov/454/Clean-Up-Days.