At its Tuesday night meeting, the Stoughton City Council took the first step toward tightening controls on mercury entering the city’s sewer network. Council members heard a first reading of an ordinance amendment drafted by Stoughton Utilities that would establish a maximum allowable mercury concentration for discharges into the municipal sewer system.
Why the ordinance matters
City staff explained that the proposed limits are intended to bring Stoughton into compliance with guidance issued by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC). Recent state data show mercury concentrations in wastewater streams are on an upward trajectory, largely driven by dental offices that release mercury from amalgam fillings during routine procedures.
Details of the proposed amendment
The ordinance would amend the existing sewer code to require all users—particularly dental practices and any facilities handling mercury‑containing materials—to implement best‑practice controls and monitoring. Specific provisions include:
- Establishing a numeric mercury concentration ceiling for all discharges.
- Mandating the use of approved filtration or treatment technologies where mercury is present.
- Requiring periodic reporting to Stoughton Utilities to verify compliance.
- Providing a clear enforcement framework, including possible fines for violations.
Stoughton Utilities’ committee gave the proposal a unanimous recommendation, noting that the measures are consistent with state‑wide efforts to protect water resources and public health.
Next steps for the council
The ordinance now moves to a second reading, scheduled for the council’s next regular meeting. During that session, council members will have the opportunity to ask further questions, consider any amendments, and ultimately vote on whether to adopt the new mercury limits.
Community members who wish to provide input are encouraged to attend the upcoming meeting or submit written comments to the city clerk’s office. The council has pledged to keep the process transparent and to keep residents informed about how the new standards will be implemented.
Broader context
Wisconsin’s PSC has been urging municipalities across the state to address mercury in wastewater, recognizing that even small increases can accumulate in waterways and affect fish populations and drinking‑water sources. By acting proactively, Stoughton joins a growing list of Wisconsin communities taking steps to safeguard their local environment while adhering to state regulatory expectations.
For now, the focus remains on gathering additional data and ensuring that local businesses have the resources they need to meet the upcoming requirements. The council’s continued attention to this issue reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship of the city’s natural resources and the health of its residents.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
