... and its partners for their continual work and support to protect our natural waterways.
A portion of the narrative from the city's accolades follows:
"Our final award this evening is in recognition of an individual or group that has improved water quality in the watershed. It is with great admiration and respect that we honor the City of Lima for a multitude of projects and investments that will undoubtedly produce significant improvements in water quality for the Ottawa River. That list of accomplishments includes:
- The CSO Storage Tank Project at Simmons Field. It may still be just a big hole in the ground but it holds much promise for a healthier Ottawa River.
- The Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion
- Creation of the Stormwater Utility
- Sanitary sewer overflow structure improvements.
- Continued maintenance and repair to an aging sanitary sewer and storm sewer systems – and separation of those systems whenever feasible.
- The riparian corridor enhancement project has had a dramatic effect on improving the plant community from Main to Collett Streets. And over the long term the river will benefit from that improvement.
- Studying the river through the City to better understand flow characteristics and contributions. This includes partnering with Bassett Associates and Beam Designs to consider how the lowhead dams might be designed differently. And we should offer thanks to the City for indulging the Coalition Coordinator these past five years by leaving the Jackson Street dam gate out so we can evaluate that lowered water level regarding stream function and habitat.
- Their investment in the Riverwalk, capturing of grant funds to do so, and continually planning and partnering to enhance, extend and link it with other community features.
- Through all of it being conscious of the impacts to the local user rates and citizens, including fighting for protecting citizens and businesses from the financial impacts imposed by unfunded mandates and continually being present to voice those concerns with the Conference of Mayors, USEPA, and Congress.
Mayor Berger, Mike [Caprella, Utilities Director] and Howard [Elstro, Public Works Director] – I’m sure we have forgotten something in this list. But be assured that it has been our distinct pleasure to partner with you over the long term and to have your continued and active participation in the Ottawa River Coalition. Ladies and gentlemen join me in congratulating the City of Lima – our 2019 Watershed Improvement Award winner!"