February 1, 2024
Contact: Troy Smith, IPDES Bureau Chief, troy.smith@deq.idaho.gov
BOISE – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) seeks comment on a proposed settlement action with the city of Parma.
On April 6, 2023, DEQ filed a complaint in Canyon County against the city of Parma for violations of the Clean Water Act at the city’s Publicly Owned Treatment Works in Parma, Idaho, which discharges municipal wastewater into Sand Hollow Creek, a tributary of the Snake River.
The complaint alleges discharge of pollutants to waters of the United States, in violation of the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (IPDES) permit issued by DEQ under the Clean Water Act, as well as Idaho Code § 39-175, et seq. and the “Rules Regulating the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program” (IDAPA 58.01.25). As part of the complaint, DEQ is seeking an injunction requiring the city to comply with all permit terms and conditions therein and assess against the statutory penalties.
In compliance with Idaho Code 39-108(9) and IDAPA 58.01.25.500.04., DEQ is seeking public comment on the proposed settlement to the complaints. The proposed settlement directs the city of Parma to achieve compliance with the final effluent limits for phosphorus, while also ensuring that biological oxygen demand, total suspended solids, and total residual chlorine achieve compliance with specified effluent limits under the compliance schedule. The proposed settlement also directs the city to update and submit a quality assurance plan and quarterly report to DEQ. A penalty of $66,900 is being levied for violations related to this complaint, with $267,600 being administered as stipulated penalties.
The proposed settlement is available for review at DEQ’s State Office (1410 North Hilton Street, Boise, Idaho) and on DEQ’s Public Comment Opportunities page. Written comments on the proposed settlement will be accepted through March 2, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. MDT. This proposed settlement may be amended or adjusted in the future, in which case, DEQ may provide additional public comment opportunity.
Submit comments electronically on DEQ’s website or by mail or email:
Troy Smith
1410 N. Hilton St.
Boise, ID 83706
Troy.Smith@deq.idaho.gov