Omaha approves MUD sewer fee collection agreement, advances WRRF contracts

Omaha approves MUD sewer fee collection agreement, advances WRRF contractsThe Omaha City Council unanimously backed an ordinance allowing the Metropolitan Utilities District to collect and remit municipal sewer fees, while also advancing design and chemical contracts for the Papillion Creek Water Resource Recovery Facility.

The council voted 5-0 to approve an agreement for the Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD) to collect, administer, and remit sewer use fees to the city.

The billing ordinance included an amendment of the whole requested by the city's Public Works Department.

The council approved a $212,720 contract amendment with JEO Consulting Group for design services at the Papio Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF).

A purchase order for sludge dewatering liquid polymer from Polydyne, Inc. for the Papillion Creek WRRF advanced through a public hearing.

The City of Omaha will utilize the Metropolitan Utilities District (MUD) for the collection of its municipal sewer revenues following a unanimous City Council vote on March 24, 2026. The council voted 5-0 to approve an agreement authorizing MUD to collect, administer, and remit sewer use fees from its ratepayers on behalf of the city. The ordinance, which involves appropriations spanning more than one year, was passed with an amendment of the whole requested by the city's Public Works Department. The item advanced without public opposition or substantive council debate. In addition to the billing administration agreement, the council advanced several operational and capital items for the city's wastewater treatment infrastructure. Through the consent agenda, the council approved $212,720 in additional design phase services from JEO Consulting Group for the Papio Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) Inplant Gate and 201 Gate project. The engineering fees will be paid from the city's Sewer Revenue Improvements Bond Fund. Furthermore, the council held a public hearing on a purchase order to Polydyne, Inc. for sludge dewatering liquid polymer. The chemical will be utilized at the Papillion Creek WRRF under a one-year contract, which includes the option for up to four one-year extensions. No opponents or proponents testified during the hearing, and the item will face a final reading and vote at an upcoming council meeting.