NC0085588_Regional Office Historical File Pre 2018

Water Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALifY
ROY COOPER
Governor
MICHAEL S. REGAN
Secretary
S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
Director
March 13, 2017
Mr. Stephen Peeler, Public Works Director
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28093-0617
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
City of Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County
Dear Mr. Peeler:
Enclosed is a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection for the inspection conducted
at the subject facility on March 9, 2017, by Ori Tuvia. Robert Pearson's cooperation during the
site visit was much appreciated. Please advise the staff involved with this NPDES Permit by
forwarding a copy of the enclosed report.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions
concerning this report, please do not hesitate to contact Ori Tuvia at [phone], or at
[e-mail].
Sincerely,
Ori Tuvia, Environmental Engineer
Mooresville Regional Office
Division of Water Resources, DE4
Cc: NPDES Unit
Lincoln County Health Department
Mooresville Regional Office
Location: 610 East Center Ave., Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115
.-rn., — ­­ ­_ r-i/ — CA I l...­­ C•.....:..... 1 0— C01 CIAO

F
United States Environmental Protection Agency
r
Form Approved.
trH Washington. D.0 20460
OMB No. 2040.0%7
Water Compliance -Inspection Report
Approvalexpces8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 IN 1 2 15 I 3 I NCO085588 111 12 171na9 �17 18 I C I 19 L s j 201I
2111I I I I I 1 1 1111.11 1 1 (I I I I 11.I (! I I l 1 1 11 111 1 11 1 1 16-6-
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 QA — Reserved
67 1.0 70 Ea I 71 jN I 72 1 N 1 731 1 174 751 1 1 1 1 1 I 180
LJ I 1 I
Section B FacilityDataL-f
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
10 10AM 17/03/09
12l07/01
Lincointon WTP
Exit TimelDate
Permit Expiration Date
1338 ReepsviAe Rd
11:55AM 17/03l09
15107/31
Lktcointon NC 28093
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(sj Titles(syPhone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
1/f
Robert Worth Pearson/ORC!704-736-8970/
Name. Address of Responsible Official/TittelPhone and Fax plumber
Contacted
Stephen H Peeler,PO Box 617 Lincolnton NC 280930617/1704-736-898017D47368959
No
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check onlythose areas evaluated)
Permit 0 Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenancr Records/Reports
self -Monitoring Program 0 Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(bee attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s) of Inspector(s) AgencylOffice/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
On A Tuvia MRO WQ/1704-663-1699/
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer AgencytOfficeiPhone and Fax Numbers Date
W. Corey Basinger MRO WQ//704-235-2194/
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
Page# 1

NPDES
yr/moiday
31 NCO085588 (11 12 17/03109 117
Inspection Type
18 I=1
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
C
Page#

Permit NCO085588 Ovner - Facility Llncointon WrP
Inspection Date 03109i2017 Inspection Type. Compliance Evaluation
Permit Yes No NA NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a ne%v M ❑ ❑ ❑
application?
Is the facility as described in the permit? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
# Are there any special conditions for the permit? ❑ 0 ❑ ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: The subject permit expired on 7/31/2015 The Division received the permit renewal package
on 2/23/2015.
Record Keeping Yes No NA NE
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is all required information readily available, complete and current? ❑ ❑ ❑
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the chain -of -custody complete? ❑ ❑ ❑
Dates, times and location of sampling
Name of individual performing the sampling
Results of analysis and calibration
Dates of analysis
Name of person performing analyses ❑
Transported COCs ■
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users and DWQ? ❑ ❑ ❑
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24/7 with a certified operator ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
on each shift?
Is the ORC visitation log available and current? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification? ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review? ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: The records reviewed during the inspection were organized and well maintained. DMRs,
COCs calibration logs and ORC visitation logs were reviewed for the period April 2016
through December 2016.
Laboratory
Yes No NA NE
Pageg 3

L7
Permit NCO085588 av ner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection ©ate: 03/09/2017 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Laboratory _ Yes No NA NE
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Are all other parameters(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
# Is the facility using a contract lab?
M
❑
❑
❑
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees
❑
❑
❑
Celsius)?
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees?
❑
❑
0❑
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees?
❑
❑
0
❑
Comment: On -site field analvses (PH and total residual_ chlorine) are performed under the facility's field
laboratory certification #5060 The City's WWTP lab performs the total suspended solids
(TSS) analyses and Prism Laboratories (turbidity) and Meritech Inc. (metals and toxicity)
have also been contracted to provide analytical support.
The laboratory instrumentation used for field analyses appeared to be property
calibrated/verified and documented.
Effluent Sampling
Yes No
NA NE
Is composite sampling flow proportional?
❑
❑
❑
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
❑
❑
❑
Is proper volume collected?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the tubing clean?
❑
❑
0
❑
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees
❑
❑
N
❑
Celsius)?
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type
M
❑
❑
❑
representative)?
Comment: The subject permit requires effluent grab samples
Upstream / Downstream Sampling Yes No NA NE
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and t ❑ ❑ ❑
sampling location)?
Comment:
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters.. for ex: MLSS. MCRT, Settleable ❑ ❑ 0 ❑
Solids; pH, DO. Sludge Judge.. and other that are applicable?
Comment: The facility appeared to be properly operated and well maintained
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Page#z 4

FF
Permit NC0085588 Owner -Facility: LincolntonVYiP
Inspection Date. 03i09;2017 Inspection Type' Compliance Evaluation
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
# Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit? 1
Are lagoons operated in?
# Is a re -circulation line present?
❑
❑
0
❑
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials?
E
❑
❑
❑
# Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable?
❑
❑
0
❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation?
❑
❑
M
❑
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon?
0
❑
❑
❑
Are dikes free of seepage?
0
❑
❑
❑
Are dikes free of erosion?
■
❑
❑
❑
Are dikes free of burrowing animals?
■
❑
❑
❑
# Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple
❑
❑
0
❑
locations?
# If excessive algae is present. has barley straw been used to help control the growth?
❑
❑
M
❑
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds?
M
❑
❑
❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting?
M
❑
❑
❑
Comment: The facility is equipped with a concrete -lined sludge holding lagoon. The sludge collection
system (chain and flight assembly) and the high water alarm system were operational
and in
service. The high water alarm system is connected to the on -site SCADA system.
De -chlorination
Yes No
NA NE
Type of system ?
Liquid
Is the feed ratio proportional to chlorine amount (1 to 1)?
❑
❑
0
❑
Is storage appropriate for cylinders?
❑
❑
No
# Is de -chlorination substance stored away from chlorine containers?
❑
❑
❑
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
❑
❑
0
❑
Comment. Aqueous sodium bisulfite is used for dechlorination.
Are tablet de -chlorinators operational? ❑ ❑ M ❑
Number of tubes in use?
Comment:
Pump Station - Effluent Yes No NA NE
Is the pump wet well free of bypass lines or structures? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Are all pumps present? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Page# 5

Permit NG0085588
Inspection Date. 03109/2017
Owner - Facility Lincointon WTP
Inspection Type Compliance Evaluation
11
Pump Station - Effluent
Yes No
NA NE
Are all pumps operable?
M
❑
❑
❑
Are float controls operable?
❑
❑
❑
Is SCADA telemetry available and operational?
❑
❑
❑
Is audible and visual alarm available and operational?
❑
❑
❑
M
Comment
Effluent Pipe
Yes No
NA NE
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained?
■
❑
❑
❑
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris?
M
❑
❑
❑
if effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly?
❑
❑
M
❑
Comment: The effluent appeared clear with no floatable solids or foam. The receiving
stream did
not
appear to be negatively impacted
Solids Handling Equipment
Yes No
NA NE
Is the equipment operational?
`
❑
❑
❑
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
M
❑
❑
❑
Is storage adequate?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
❑
❑
M
❑
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
❑
❑
M
❑
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
M
❑
❑
❑
The facility has an approved sludge management plan?
M
❑
❑
❑
Comment: Sludae is dewatered by a centrifuge that was operational and in service at the time of the
inspection Dewatered sludge is transported (by City personnel) to the Lincoln County
Landfill for final disposal The centrate from the centrifuge is returned back to the sludge
holding lagoon.
The City is also permitted to land apply the facility's sludge under the authority of Permit
W00002712. Synapro has been contracted to land apply the sludge
Page# 6

Water Resources
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Jeff Emory
City of Lincolnton
PO Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28093-0617
PAT MCCRORY
Governor
DONALD R. VAN DER VAART
SrI (w t
S. JAY ZIMMERMAN
RECEIVEDINCDENRIDWRc'O'
March 31, 2016
APR 4 2016
Subject: NPDES Electronic Reporting Requirements and
Sixty Day Notice of Minor Modification of the NPDES Permit
Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit Number: NCO085588
Dear NPDES Permittee:
WQROS
MOORESVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently published the National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) Electronic Reporting Rule. The rule requires NPDES regulated facilities to
report information electronically, instead of filing written paper reports. The rule does not change what
information is required from facilities. It only changes the method by which information is provided (i.e.,
electronic rather than paper -based).
EPA is phasing in the requirements of the rule over a 5-year period. The two phases of the rule, and their
key milestones, are:
• Phase 1—Starting on December 21, 2016, regulated entities that are required to submit Discharge
Monitoring Reports (DMRs) will begin submitting these reports electronically, instead of on
paper. If you are currently reporting your DMR data electronically using eDMR, then you simply
need to continue reporting in the same way as you are now. The key change is that, starting on
December 21, 2016, electronic reporting of DMRs will be required, instead of voluntary.
0 Phase 2—Starting on December 21, 2020, regulated entities that are required to submit certain
other NPDES reports will begin submitting these reports electronically, instead of on paper.
Reports covered in the second phase include Notices of Intent to discharge in compliance with an
NPDES general permit, Sewer Overflow/Bypass Event Reports, and a number of other NPDES
program reports.
For more information on EPA's NPDES Electronic Reporting Rule, visit
http://www2.epa.goy/compliance/final-national-pollutant-discharge-elimination-system-npdes-
electronic-reporting-rule. For more information on electronic reporting to NC DWR, visit
htt : /deg.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/edmr/npdes-electronic-reporting or contact Vanessa
Manuel at 919-807-6392 or via email at [e-mail].
State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources
1611 Mail service Center I Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1611
919 707 9000

Sixty Days' Notice of Minor Modification of the Subject NPDES Permit
The NPDES Electronic Reporting Rule requires authorized NPDES programs to incorporate electronic
reporting requirements into NPDES permits beginning December 21, 2015. Under the new rule, the
electronic reporting process supersedes the paper reporting process outlined in your existing permit. To
bring your permit up-to-date with the new reporting requirements, this letter serves to notify you that in
sixty days your NPDES permit will be modified to incorporate the new electronic reporting requirements.
The modification will require electronic reporting in place of paper -based reporting. Electronic reporting
will be required beginning as indicated above for Phases 1 and 2 reporting. Please attach the enclosed
NPDES Permit Standard Conditions Part/1/ —Addendum to your permit. This permit modification becomes
effective on July 1, 2016.
All other terms and conditions in the original permit remain unchanged and in full effect. This
modification is issued pursuant to the requirements of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1 and the
Memorandum of Agreement between North Carolina and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
dated October 15, 2007.
If any parts contained in this modification are unacceptable to you, then you have the right to file a
petition for a contested case with the Office of Administrative Hearings within thirty (30) days following
receipt of this letter. This petition must conform to the requirements of Chapter 150B of the North
Carolina General Statutes. Petitions must be timely filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings, Post
Office Drawer 11666, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604. If you do not file a petition within the required time,
the agency decision shall be final and binding. If you have questions concerning this permit modification,
please contact John Hennessy at telephone number 919-807-6377.
Sincerely,
J e f f re.9 O. Po-uV-a_r
forS. Jay Zimmerman, P.G.
Enclosure: NPDES Permit Standard Conditions Part III - Addendum
Cc: NPDES File
Central Files
-eTWater u ram

AFAA
����
PV NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Pat McCrory Donald R. van der Vaart
Governor Secretary
January 13, 2015
5060
Mr. Robert Pearson
City of Lincolnton WTP
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28093
Subject: North Carolina Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory Certification (NC WW/GW LC)
Maintenance Inspection
Dear Mr. Pearson:
Enclosed is a report for the inspection performed on December 10, 2014 by Jason Smith. Where
finding(s) are cited in this report, a response is required. Within thirty days of receipt, please supply
this office with a written item for item description of how these finding(s) were corrected. If the
finding(s) cited in the enclosed report are not corrected, enforcement actions may be
recommended. For certification maintenance, your laboratory must continue to carry out the
requirements set forth in 15A NCAC 2H .0800.
Copies of the checklists completed during the inspection may be requested from this office. Thank
you for your cooperation during the inspection. If you wish to obtain an electronic copy of this
report by email or if you have questions or need additional information, please contact us at (828)
296-4677.
Attachment
cc: Master file
Jason Smith
Sincerely,
Gary Francies, Technical Assistance/Compliance Specialist
Division of Water Resources
Water Sciences Section
NC Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory Certification Branch
1623 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1623
Location: 4405 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]
Internet: www.dwalab.ora
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer

PV
Laboratory Cert. #:
INSPECTION REPORT ROUTING SHEET
To be attached to all inspection reports in-house only.
Laboratory Name:
Inspection Type:
Inspector Name(s):
Inspection Date:
Date Report Completed:
Date Forwarded to Reviewer:
Reviewed by:
Date Review Completed
Cover Letter to use:
Unit Supervisor/Chemist III:
Date Received:
Date Forwarded to Linda:
Date Mailed:
5060
Citv of Lincolnton WTP
Field Maintenance
Jason Smith
December 10. 2014
January 7, 2015
January 7, 2015
Todd Crawford
January 7, 2015
❑ Insp. Initial ® Insp. Reg.
❑ Insp. No Finding ❑ Insp. CP
❑ Corrected ❑ Insp. Reg. Delay
Gary Francies
1 /8/2015
1/12/2014
please send to Wes Bell in MRO wes.bell(a-)_ncdenr.gov

On -Site Inspection Report
LABORATORY NAME:
NPDES PERMIT #:
ADDRESS:
CERTIFICATE #:
DATE OF INSPECTION:
TYPE OF INSPECTION:
AUDITOR(S):
LOCAL PERSON(S) CONTACTED
INTRODUCTION:
City of Lincolnton WTP
NCO085588
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28093
5060
December 10, 2014
Field Maintenance
Jason Smith
Robert Pearson and Todd Cochrane
This laboratory was inspected by a representative of the North Carolina Wastewater/Groundwater
Laboratory Certification (NC WW/GW LC) program to verify its compliance with the requirements of 15A
NCAC 2H .0800 for the analysis of environmental samples.
II. GENERAL COMMENTS:
The facility has all the equipment necessary to perform the analyses. Proficiency Testing (PT) samples
have been analyzed for all certified parameters for the 2014 proficiency testing calendar year and the
graded results were 100% acceptable.
Contracted analyses are performed by Prism Laboratories, Inc. (Certification #402).
Current quality assurance policies for Field Laboratories and approved procedures for the analysis of
the facility's currently certified parameters were provided at the time of the inspection.
The requirements associated with Findings B, D, E, G, H, and I have been implemented by our program
since the last inspection.
III. FINDINGS REQUIREMENTS COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
Documentation
A. Finding: Some instances of overwriting as a means of error correction were observed.
Requirement: All documentation errors must be corrected by drawing a single line through the
error so that the original entry remains legible. Entries shall not be obliterated by erasures or
markings. Wite-Out®, correction tape or similar products designed to obliterate documentation
are not to be used. Write the correction adjacent to the error. The correction must be initialed
by the responsible individual and the date of change documented. All data and log entries must
be written in indelible ink. Pencil entries are not acceptable. Ref: Quality Assurance Policies for
Field Laboratories.

age 2
45 660 City of Lincolnton WTP
B. Finding: The laboratory needs to increase the documentation of purchased materials and
reagents, as well as documentation of standards and reagents prepared in the laboratory.
Requirement: All chemicals, reagents, standards and consumables used by the laboratory
must have the following information documented: Date Received, Date Opened (in use),
Vendor, Lot Number, and Expiration Date. A system (e.g., traceable identifiers) must be in
place that links standard/reagent preparation information to analytical batches in which the
solutions are used. Documentation of solution preparation must include the analyst's initials,
date of preparation the volume or weight of standard(s) used the solvent and final volume of
the solution. This information as well as the vendor and/or manufacturer, lot number, and
expiration date must be retained for chemicals, reagents, standards and consumables used for
a period of five years. Consumable materials such as pH buffers and lots of pre -made
standards are included in this requirement. Ref: Quality Assurance Policies for Field
Laboratories.
Comment: The underlined portion of the above requirement refers to the laboratory prepared
Potassium Permanganate for Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) curve verification.
Comment: The laboratory has an acceptable traceability log for drinking water analysis reagents
which may also be used for wastewater analysis reagents.
C. Finding: All original records were not on file.
Requirement: Data pertinent to each analysis must be maintained for five years. Ref: 15A NCAC
2H .0805 (g) (1).
Comment: The testing data is initially written on a piece of paper and then transferred to the
benchsheet. This original paperwork is then discarded.
D. Finding: Instrument identification is not documented on the benchsheets for TRC.
Requirement: The following must be documented in indelible ink whenever sample analysis is
performed: Instrument identification. Ref: NC WW/GW LC Approved Procedure for the Analysis of
Total Residual Chlorine.
E. Finding: The true value of the TRC gel standard is not documented on the benchsheet.
Requirement: The following must be documented in indelible ink whenever sample analysis is
performed: True value of the check standard. Ref: NC WW/GW LC Approved Procedure for the
Analysis of Total Residual Chlorine.
F. Finding: Units of measure for pH (Standard Units or S.U.) are not documented on the
benchsheet and calibration log.
Requirement: The field benchsheets must provide a space for the signature or initials of the
analyst, and proper units of measure for all analyses. Ref: 15A NCAC 2H .0805 (g) (1).
Proficiency Testing
G. Finding: The laboratory is not analyzing PT samples in the same manner as environmental
samples.

Page 3
#5060 City of Lincolnton WTP
Requirement: All PT samples are to be analyzed and the results reported in a manner
consistent with the routine analysis and reporting requirements of compliance samples and any
other samples analyzed according to the requirements of 15A NCAC 2H .0800. Ref: Proficiency
Testing Requirements, February 20, 2012, Revision 1.2.
Comment: The laboratory's common practice was to analyze a known standard along with the
PT sample as additional quality control. Since this is not performed with all environmental
samples, it is considered additional quality control. However, known samples are recommended
when analyzing remedial PT samples as part of the troubleshooting and corrective action
process.
H. Finding: The laboratory is not documenting Proficiency Testing (PT) sample analyses in the
same manner as environmental samples.
Requirement: All PT sample analyses must be recorded in the daily analysis records as for any
environmental sample. This serves as the permanent laboratory record. Ref: Proficiency
Testing Requirements, February 20, 2012, Revision 1.2.
Comment: This means that the PT analyses must be documented on a benchsheet in the
same manner as daily samples.
I. Finding: The preparation of PT samples is not documented.
Requirement: PT samples received as ampules must be diluted according to the PT provider's
instructions. The preparation of PT samples must be documented in a traceable log or other
traceable format. The diluted PT sample becomes a routine environmental sample and is added
to a routine sample batch for analysis. Ref: Proficiency Testing Requirements, February 20,
2012, Revision 1.2.
Comment: Dating and initialing the instruction sheet for the preparation of the TRC PT would
satisfy the documentation requirement.
IV. PAPER TRAIL INVESTIGATION:
The paper trail consisted of comparing field testing records and contract lab reports to Discharge
Monitoring Reports (DMRs) submitted to the North Carolina Division of Water Resources. Data were
reviewed for the City of Lincolnton WTP (NPDES permit #NC0085588) for July, August, September,
and October, 2014. No transcription errors were detected. The facility appears to be doing a good job
of accurately transcribing data.
V. CONCLUSIONS:
Correcting the above -cited findings will help this la
requirements. The inspector would like to thank the
data review process. Please respond to all findings.
b
to produce quality data and meet certification
staff for its assistance during the inspection and
Report prepared by: Jason Smith Date: January 7, 2015
Report reviewed by: Todd Crawford Date: January 7, 2015

P
Bell, Wes
From: Chavis, Linda
Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2015 10:28 AM
To: Bell, Wes
Subject: FW: Report Ready to Mail - JS #5060
Attachments: JS#5060_Inspection_Reg_Gary_2015.doc; JS_#5060_12_2014_FINAL.doc
From: Francies, Gary
Sent: Monday, January 12, 2015 4:11 PM
To: Chavis, Linda
Cc: Smith, Jason M.; Satterwhite, Dana
Subject: Report Ready to Mail - JS #5060
Linda
Please disregard previous email for #5060. 1 forgot to add the request for you to send to Wes Bell in MRO
Thanks
Gary
Have you signed up to receive automatic email notices of changes to policies, regulations and
resources pertaining to Wastewater/Groundwater Laboratory Certification that could have an impact
on your day to day operations? If not, send a blank email to the following address to get on the
list.
DENR.DWQ.Lab Cert-join(@lists.ncmail.net
Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to
third parties unless the content is exempt by statute or other regulation.
Gary Francies
Technical Assistance/Compliance Specialist
NC WW/GW Laboratory Certification
0: [phone]
F: [phone]
NC DENR/Division of Water Resources — Water Quality Programs
Water Sciences Section — Asheville Regional Office
2090 U.S. Highway 70
Swannanoa, NC 28778
http://Portal.ncdenr.org/web/wq/lab/cert

North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
Pat McCrory Donald van der Vaart
Governor Secretary
September 21, 2015
Mr. Stephen Peeler
Director of Public Works and Utilities
City of Lincolnton
Post Office Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28093-0617
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
City of Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County
Dear Mr. Peeler:
Enclosed is a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report for the inspection conducted at the
subject facility on September 11, 2015 by Mr. Wes Bell of this Office. The inspection was performed at the City's
request to evaluate the facility's NPDES Program. No violations of the NPDES Permit were found. Please inform
the facility's Operator -in -Responsible Charge (ORC) of our findings by forwarding a copy of the enclosed report.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions concerning this report, please
do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bell at [phone], or at [e-mail].
Enclosure:
Inspection Report
cc: MSC 1617-Central Files/Basement
Lincoln County Health Department
1M..
Sin rely, .
Michael L. Parker, Regional Supervisor
Mooresville Regional Office
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Division of Water Resources, DENR
Mooresville Regional Office
Location: 610 East Center Ave., Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: [phone] t Fax: [phone] t Customer Service: "77-623-6748
Internet: www.newaterqualiV.org
An Equal Opportunity !Affirmative Action Employer — 30% Recycled110% Post Consumer paper

F
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington, D.C. 20460
OMB No. 2040-0057
Water Compliance Inspection Report
Approval expiresB-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 IN 2 15 1 3 I NCO085588 111 121 15/09/1, 17 181,- 1 19 I � j 201
21I 111 1 1 I I I I II 1 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I II ) 1 1 I I r6
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 CA ---------- -Reserved---- --____
67
2.0 70 L 71 72 LJ 73174 751
I I I I I
80
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
09:20AM 15/09/11
12/07/01
Lincolnton WTP
1338 Reepsville Rd
Exit Time/Date
Permit Expiration Date
Lincolnton NC 28093
12:OOPM 15/09/11
15/07/31
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
///
Robert Worth Pearson/ORC/704-736-8970/
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Stephen H Peeler, PO Box 617 Lincolnton NC 280930617/Director Public Works &
No
Utilities/704-736-8940/7047368959
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit N Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenance Records/Reports
Self -Monitoring Program E Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s) of Inspec s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
JJ`�
Wes Bell t �_ �i�V f / MRO WQN704-663 1699 Ext.21921 Q / /-9`
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
( dt'I c�
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
Page#

NPDES
yr/mo/day
31 NC0085588 I11 121 15/09/1, 1
17
Inspection Type
18 JCJ
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
14
Page#

Permit: NCO085588 Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Date: 09/11/2015 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Permit Yes No NA NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
application?
Is the facility as described in the permit? M ❑ ❑ ❑
# Are there any special conditions for the permit? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: The Division received the permit renewal package on 2/23/2015.
The last compliance evaluation inspection was performed at the facility on 6/6/2013.
Record Keeping
Yes No NA NE
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit?
M
❑
❑
❑
Is all required information readily available, complete and current?
■
❑
❑
❑
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)?
0
❑
❑
❑
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DM Rs?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the chain -of -custody complete?
M
❑
❑
❑
Dates, times and location of sampling
Name of individual performing the sampling
Results of analysis and calibration
Dates of analysis
Name of person performing analyses
Transported COCs
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters?
❑
❑
❑
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users and DWQ?
❑
❑0
❑
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24/7 with a certified operator
❑
❑
M
❑
on each shift?
Is the ORC visitation log available and current?
M
❑
❑
❑
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site?
0
❑
❑
❑
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review?
❑
❑
0
❑
Comment: The records reviewed during the inspection were organized and well maintained.
Discharge
Monitoring Reports (DMRs) were reviewed for the period August 2014 through July
2015.
No effluent limit violations were reported and all monitoring frequencies were correct.
Laboratory
Yes No NA NE
Page# 3

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 09/11/2015
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
11
Laboratory Yes No NA NE
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory? 0 ❑
❑ ❑
Are all other parameters(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab? ■ ❑
❑ ❑
# Is the facility using a contract lab? M ❑
❑ ❑
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees ❑ ❑
M ❑
Celsius)?
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees? ❑ ❑
0 ❑
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees? ❑ ❑
M ❑
Comment: On -site field analyses (pH and total residual chlorine) are performed under the facility's field
laboratory certification #5060. The City's WWTP lab performs the total suspended solids
(TSS) analyses and Prism Laboratories (turbidity) and Meritech, Inc. (metals and toxicity)
have also been contracted to provide analytical support.
The laboratory instrumentation used for field analyses appeared to be properly
calibrated/verified and documented. The facility staff must ensure that the TSS samples are
stored on ice if these samples are not received at the City's WWTP within fifteen minutes
from the time of sample collection.
Effluent Sampling
Yes No NA NE
Is composite sampling flow proportional?
❑
❑
0
❑
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is proper volume collected?
M
❑
❑
❑
Is the tubing clean?
❑
❑
M
❑
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees
❑
❑
M
❑
Celsius)?
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type
0
❑
❑
❑
representative)?
Comment: The subject permit requires effluent grab samples.
Upstream I Downstream Sampling Yes No NA NE
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and M ❑ ❑ ❑
sampling location)?
Comment:
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? N ❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable ❑ ❑ ❑
Solids, pH, DO, Sludge Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment: The facility appeared to be properly operated and well maintained. The ORC has
incorporated the additional process control suggestions discussed during the inspection.
Page# 4

Permit: NCO085588 Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Date: 09/11/2015 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
# Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit? 1
Are lagoons operated in?
# Is a re -circulation line present? ❑ ❑ M ❑
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials? 0❑ ❑ ❑
# Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable? ❑ ❑0 ❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation? ❑ ❑ M ❑
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Are dikes free of seepage? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
Are dikes free of erosion? M ❑ ❑ ❑
Are dikes free of burrowing animals? 0 ❑ ❑ ❑
# Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple ❑ ❑ M ❑
locations?
# If excessive algae is present, has barley straw been used to help control the growth?
❑
❑
M
❑
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting?
0
❑
❑
❑
Comment: The facility is equipped with a concrete -lined sludge holding lagoon. The sludge collection
system (chain and flight assembly) and the high water alarm system were operational and in
service. The high water alarm system is connected to the on -site SCADA system.
De -chlorination
Yes No NA NE
Type of system ?
Liquid
Is the feed ratio proportional to chlorine amount (1 to 1)?
❑
❑
0
❑
Is storage appropriate for cylinders?
❑
❑
M
❑
# Is de -chlorination substance stored away from chlorine containers?
M
❑
❑
❑
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
❑
❑
0
❑
Comment: Aqueous sodium bisulfate is used for dechlorination.
Are tablet de -chlorinators operational? ❑ ❑ M ❑
Number of tubes in use?
Comment:
Pump Station -Effluent Yes No NA NE
Page# 5

Permit: NC0085588
Inspection Date: 09/11/2015
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
11
Pump Station - Effluent
Yes No NA NE
Is the pump wet well free of bypass lines or structures?
N
❑
❑
❑
Are all pumps present?
M
❑
❑
❑
Are all pumps operable?
M
❑
❑
❑
Are float controls operable?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is SCADA telemetry available and operational?
M
❑
❑
❑
Is audible and visual alarm available and operational?
❑
❑
M
❑
Comment:
Flow Measurement - Effluent
Yes No NA NE
# Is flow meter used for reporting?
❑
❑
N
❑
Is flow meter calibrated annually?
❑
❑
M
❑
Is the flow meter operational?
❑
❑
0
❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter?
❑
❑
0
❑
Comment: Effluent flow measurements are based on puma run times and flow rates. The facilitv's
SCADA system monitors each pump (including run times) and calculates the daily
discharge volumes.
Effluent Pipe
Yes No NA NE
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained?
■
❑
❑
❑
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris?
0
❑
❑
❑
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly?
❑
❑
0
❑
Comment: The effluent appeared clear with no floatable solids or foam. The receiving stream did not
appear to be negatively impacted.
Solids Handling Equipment
Yes No NA NE
Is the equipment operational?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
N
❑
❑
❑
Is storage adequate?
0
❑
❑
❑
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
❑
❑
0
❑
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
❑
❑
0
❑
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
0
❑
❑
❑
The facility has an approved sludge management plan?
0
❑
❑
❑
Page# 6

r
Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 09/11/2015
Solids Handling Equipment
Owner -Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Yes No NA NE
Comment: Sludge is dewatered by a centrifuge that was operational and in service at the time of the
inspection Dewatered sludge is transported (by City personnel) to the Lincoln County
Landfill for final disposal. The centrate from the centrifuge is returned back to the sludge
holding lagoon.
The City is also permitted to land apply the facility's sludge under the authority of Permit No
WQ0002712. Synagro has been contracted to land apply the sludge.
Page#

,&4
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural
Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Section
Pat McCrory Thomas A. Reeder
Governor Director
December 2, 2013
Mr. Steve Peeler
Director of Public Works
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28093-0617
FL
Resources
John E. Skvarla, III
Secretary
Subject: Rescission of Notice of Deficiency — Monitoring Limitation
Tracking #.- NOD-2013-MV-0067
Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County
Dear Mr. Peeler:
On November 22, 2013, this office received a response to the above referenced Notice of Deficiency
(NOD). The NOD was issued for not monitoring pH twice during the month of July 2013. Based on
the amended July 2013 DMRs received on November 22, 2013, this office is rescinding the above
referenced Notice of Deficiency. If you have questions concerning this matter, please do not hesitate
to contact Ms. Marcia Allocco at [phone].
Sincerely,
l
Michael L. Parker
Water Quality Section
Regional Supervisor
cc: Point Source Branch
MA
Mooresville Regional Office
Location: 610 East Center Ave., Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748
Internet: http://portal.ncdenr.org/weblwq
An Equal Opportunity 1, Affirmative Action Employer - 30% Recycled110% Post Consumer paper
NorthCarolina
Naturally
A

CITY OF LINCOLNTON
L-T-'-� VU� IY I
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
Ms. Marcia Allocco
NCDENR
Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Mooresville Regional Office
610 East Center Ave. Suite 301
Mooresville, NC 28115
November 19, 2013
Dear Ms. Allocco:
RECEIVED
DIVISION ("" ""s"R QUALITY
NOV 2 2 2013
MOORESVILLF RE:SIONAL OFFICE
This letter is in response to the Notice of Deficiency — Monitoring Limitation Tracking #: NOD-
2013-MV-0067, Lincolnton WTP, NPDES Permit No. NC0085588, Lincoln County. The
violation was due to a transcription error and has been corrected. I am submitting an amended
DMR Effluent report for July 2013.
I am asking for rescission of the Notice of Deficiency and sending my apologies for this error.
S' cerely,
; 'z �Pe
Robert W. Pearson
City of Lincolnton
Superintendent
Water Treatment Plant
enclosure
1338 REEPSVILLE ROAD • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]
[e-mail]

A74tA.
FILEI�4
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Resources
Water Quality Regional Operations Section
Pat McCrory Thomas A. Reeder
Governor Director
November 12, 2013
Mr. Steve Peeler
Director of Public Works
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28093-0617
John E. Skvarla, III
Secretary
Subject: Notice of Deficiency — Monitoring Limitation
Tracking #: NOD-2013-MV-0067
Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County
Dear Mr. Peeler:
A review of the July 2013 self -monitoring report for the subject facility revealed a violation of the
following parameter at Outfall 001:
Date Parameter Reported Value Monitoring Requirement
7/31 /13 pH 1 x/month 2x/month
Remedial actions, if not already implemented, should be taken to correct the causes(s) of the noted
violation. Unresolved violations may lead to the issuance of a Notice of Violation and/or assessments
of civil penalties by the Division of Water Resources.
If the violation is due to a transcription error (data left off the DMR) please submit an amended DMR
(two copies) to this Office along with a cover letter asking for rescission of the Notice of Deficiency.
Please address your correspondence to Ms. Marcia Allocco at the letterhead address.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. If you have questions concerning this matter or to apply
for a SOC, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Allocco at [phone].
Sincerely,
Michael L. Parker, Supervisor
Water Quality Regional Operations
cc: Point Source Branch
MA
Mooresville Regional Office
Location: 610 East Center Ave., Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] l Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748
Internet: http://portal.ncdenr,org/webtwq
An Equal Opportunity l Affirmative Action Employer - 30% Recycledil0% Post Consumer paper
NorthCarofina
Naturally

111co
CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
August 28, 2013
To: Kerr T. Stevens
From: Donald Burkey, Jr.
Re: Performance Annual Report
Dear Kerr T. Stevens,
Enclosed is the City of Lincoluton, NC Performance Annual Report. The report covers the fiscal year of
July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013. This report includes information on the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the
Water Treatment Plant alum basin. .
If you need any additional information, please contact me at [phone].
,n n f
p/ .i
Donald A. Burkey Jr 6i/f
ORC Wastewater Treatment Plant
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
2012 - 2013
I. General Information
Facility System Name: City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
Responsible Entity: City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
Person in Charge/Contact: Donald A. Burkey Jr, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
Robert Pearson, (Water Treatment Plant)
Applicable Permits: NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
H. Description of Treatment Process
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the. inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin:
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

III. SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012-2013
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
Violations (for the fiscal year 2012-2013):
The Wastewater Treatment Plant had three reported violations for the fiscal year 2012 —2013.
Violations ( for the fiscal year 2012 — 2013)
July 2012: Antimony
This violation was due to a suspected slug load to the Wastewater
Treatment Plant from industries.
December 2012: Toxicity
This violation was due to suspected slug loads received from industries.
January 2013: Toxicity
This violation was due to suspected slug loads received from industries.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2012-2013):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2012-2013.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant:
The Water Treatment Plant did not have any reported violations for fiscal year 2012 — 2013.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2012-2013):
No reported violations for the fiscal year 2012-2013.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2012-2013 -
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2012-2013.

F
FLV
Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 30, 2013 and
September 2, 2013 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.
V. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or customers of
the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been notified of its
availability.
Donald A. Burkey Jr
Wastewater Treatind
City of Lincolnton
t Plant Superintendent
z�i /Robert Pearson
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
7- aQ- 13
Date
9-2- z'z i-3
Date

FF FILE,1�o/
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Pat McCrory Charles Wakild, P.E. John E. Skvarla, III
Governor Director Secretary
June 7, 2013
Mr. Stephen H. Peeler
Director of Public Works
City of Lincolnton
Post Office Box 617
Lincointon, North Carolina 28093-0617
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Pen -nit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County
Dear Mr. Peeler:
Enclosed is a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report for the inspection conducted at the subject
facility on June 6, 2013 by Mr. Wes Bell of this Office. Please inform the facility's Operator -in -Responsible
(ORC) of our findings by forwarding a copy of the enclosed report.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions concerning this report, please do not
hesitate to contact Mr. Wes Bell at [phone], or at [e-mail].
Sincerely,
Michael L. Parker
Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
Enclosure:
Inspection Report
cc: Lincoln County Health Department
Mooresville Regional Office
Location: 610 East Center Ave., Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Customer Service: 1-877-623-6748
Internet: www.ncwaterquality.org
NonrthCarofina
Naturatttf
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer — 30% Recycled/10% Post Consumer paper

F
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington, D.C. 20460
OMB No. 2040-0057
Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 INI 2 15 I 31 NCO085588 111 121 13/06/06 117 18 LI 19I e I 20I
-!
Remarks
21111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111116
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 QA ------ —------ --- ------- Reserved ------------ —---- ---
67I 1.5 169 70141 711 NJ 72I N I 73 L U 74 751 I I I I I I 180
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
12:40 PM 13/06/06
12/07/01
Lincolnton WTP
Exit Time/Date
Permit Expiration Date
1338 Reepsville Rd
Lincolnton NC 28093
02:15 PM 13/06/06
15/07/31
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
///
Robert Worth Pearson/ORC/704-736-8970/
Todd Cochrane/Analyst Lab/704-736-8970 /7047368979
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Stephen H Peeler,PO Box 617 Lincolnton NC 280930617//704-736-8980/7047368959
No
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenance Records/Reports
Self -Monitoring Program Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s)`of Inspect(S) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers / Date
Wesley N Bell a /� 4 MRO WQ//704-663-1699 Ext.2192/
gnature of Management Q A R 'e Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers l ��
Marcia AI occo s MRO WQ//704-663-1699 Ext.2204/
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
Page # 1

NPDES
yr/mo/day
31 NCO085588 111 12, 13/06/06 117
Inspection Type
18I
11
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Page # 2

Permit: N00085588
Inspection Date: 06/06/2013
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Permit
Yes
No
NA
NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application?
■
n
n
n
Is the facility as described in the permit?
■
O
n
n
# Are there any special conditions for the permit?
■
n
n
11
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public?
■
n
n
Q
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection?
■
n
n
n
Comment: The last compliance evaluation inspection was performed on 12/17/2010.
Record Keeping
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit?
■
n
n
n
Is all required information readily available, complete and current?
■
fl
Q
0
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)?
■
n
n
n
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs?
■
n
n
n
Is the chain -of -custody complete?
■
n
n
n
Dates, times and location of sampling
■
Name of individual performing the sampling
■
Results of analysis and calibration
■
Dates of analysis
■
Name of person performing analyses
■
Transported COCs
■
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters?
■
n
n
n
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users and DWQ?
n
n
■
n
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24/7 with a certified operator on each shift?
Q
❑
■
0
Is the ORC visitation log available and current?
■
0
❑
Q
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification?
■
n
■
n
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification?
■
n
n
0
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site?
■
n
n
n
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review?
n
n
■
[1
Page # 3

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 06/06/2013
Record Keeping
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Comment: The records reviewed during the inspection were organized and well
maintained. Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) were reviewed for the period March
2012 through February 2013. No effluent limit violations were reported. The facility
staff must ensure that a minimum of 10-days separate the twice per month effluent
samples (total residual chlorine, pH, and total suspended solids).
Laboratory
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory?
Are all other paramete rs(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab?
# Is the facility using a contract lab?
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees Celsius)?
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees?
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees?
Comment: On -site field analyses (pH and total residual chlorine) are performed under
the City of Lincolnton WTP's field laboratory certification #5060. Prism Laboratories,
Inc. (Certification #402) has also been contracted to provide analytical support.
The facility's laboratory staff were calibrating the pH meter with the seven and ten
buffers with no check standard verification. Future pH meter calibrations should be
performed with the four and ten buffers (standardization) and the seven buffer (check
standard). The pH meter must read within +/- 0.1 s.u. of the check standard. The total
residual chlorine meter appeared to be properly calibrated/verified. The calibrations
and/or verifications for both meters (pH and total residual chlorine) were being properly
documented and maintained on -site.
Effluent Sampling
Is composite sampling flow proportional?
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
Is proper volume collected?
Is the tubing clean?
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees Celsius)?
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type representative)?
Comment: The subject permit requires effluent grab samples.
Yes No NA NE
■nnn
■nnn
■ n n n
■nnn
n n ■ n
❑ ❑ ■ n
nn■o
■nnn
■nnn
nn■o
nn■n
■ n n n
Upstream / Downstream Sampling Yes No NA NE
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and sampling location)? ■ n n n
Comment:
Operations & Maintenance
vex KJ- uA uG
Page # 4

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 06/06/2013
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ■ n n n
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable Solids, pH, DO, Sludge n Cl ■ n
Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment: The wastewater treatment facility appeared to be properly operated and
well maintained.
De -chlorination
Yes
No
NA
NE
Type of system ?
Liquid
Is the feed ratio proportional to chlorine amount (1 to 1)?
n
n
■
n
Is storage appropriate for cylinders?
n
n
■
o
# Is de -chlorination substance stored away from chlorine containers?
■
n
n
n
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
n
n
■
n
Comment: The facility uses sodium bisulfite (liquid) for dechlorination.
Are tablet de -chlorinators operational?
nn■n
Number of tubes in use?
Comment:
Flow Measurement - Effluent
Yes
No
NA
NE
# Is flow meter used for reporting?
n
o
■
o
Is flow meter calibrated annually?
n
n
■
n
Is the flow meter operational?
rl
n
■
n
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter?
n
n
■
n
Comment: Effluent flow measurments are based on pump run times.
Effluent Pipe
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained?
■
n
n
n
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris?
n
n
n
■
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly?
n
n
■
n
Comment: The facility was not discharging at the time of the inspection. The receiving
stream was very turbid due to recent rainfall events; therefore, visual evaluations could
not be performed.
Solids Handling Equipment
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is the equipment operational?
■
n
n
n
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
■
n
n
n
Page # 5

Permit: NC0085588
Inspection Date: 06/06/2013
Solids Handling Equipment
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Is storage adequate?
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
The facility has an approved sludge management plan?
Comment: The facility is equipped with an operational centrifuge; however, the unit
was not dewatering sludge at the time of the inspection. Dewatered solids are
transported to the County Landfill for final disposal.
■ n n Q
nnn ■
n❑n■
■nnn
■nnn
Page # 6

I.
II.
OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
2010 - 2011
General Information
RECEIVED
DIVIJIGt' O;: WATER QUALITY
FEB 2 9 2012
:;TION
MOOREGVV LLF- REGIONAL OFFICE
Facility System Name: City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
Responsible Entity: City
of Lincolnton North Carolina rIF
__
G D
2 6 2011
Person in Charge/Contact: James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
Applicable Permits: NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
NPDES Permit Water Treatment Plant.)
Description of Treatment Process
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
P.O. BOX 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAx [phone]

.iminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin:
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

,Y OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2010-2011
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
Violations (for the fiscal year 2010-2010:
The Wastewater Treatment Plant had no reported violations for the fiscal year 2010 - 2011
Spills (for the fiscal year 2010-2011):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2010-2011.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant:
The Water Treatment Plant had no reported violations for fiscal year 2010 — 2011.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2010-2011):
No reported violations for the fiscal year 2010-2011.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2010-2011):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2010-2011.
IV. Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 31, 2011 and
September 2, 2011 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.

lion
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or customers of
the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been notified of its
availability.
avlvl� ".I)r aa.-�Z'_
J*es S. Rhyne
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
D. C. Thornburg III
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
8-2-4-d
Date
Date

V
CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
2009 — 2010
I. General Information
IN@ R ME P
AUG -62010
L_
DENR-WATER QUAL11-Y
POINT SOURCE BRANCH
Facility System Name: City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
Responsible Entity: City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
Person in Charge/Contact: James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
Applicable Permits: NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
NPDES Permit 16402 ALM&AWater Treatment Plant.)
II. Description of Treatment Process
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

Or
In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Gait Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin:
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
The Wastewater Treatment Plant had one weekly TSS violation in January due to extreme
weather conditions thus causing us not to meet the required 85% removal rate.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2009-2010):
January 2010 Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
This was a violation of our weekly average limit. Please see the attached
letter for an explanation of the causes of the violations.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2009-2010):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2009-2010.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant:
The Water Treatment Plant had no reported violations for fiscal year 2009 — 2010.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2009-2010):
No reported violations for the fiscal year 2009-2010.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2009-2010):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2009-2010.
IV. Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 9, 2010 and
August 11, 2010 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.

OFr
V. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or customers of
the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been notified of its
availability.
Jau es S. Rhyne
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
D. C. Thornburg III
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
9 -3-&
Date
k% � ho
Date

PV
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
To whom it may concern,
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
During the week of January 4u' through the 11 d', we experienced an upset condition we
believe was due to extreme weather conditions that are not normal to our area. The
temperatures at night we as follows for this week were as follows: 13, 12, 11, 11, 20, and
19. This caused our effluent temperatures to be abnormally low (see DMR) which caused
excessive D.O. in our aeration basins. When the low flow after the Christmas shutdown
went back to normal, it caused the excess foam to move from the aeration basins to the
final clarifiers. Under the extreme cold temperatures the foam formed an area of frozen
mass on top of the clarifier.
The final clarifiers are located in the lowest and in the most shaded part of our plant. As
these are some of darkest periods of winter, the one clarifier is the first to get in the shade
and the last to receive any sunshine in the morning. The scum and or foam during normal
periods dumps in the scum trough in small amounts and any excess goes around scum
trough to be collected later. The freezing temperatures caused the ice to build around the
scum trough. When the skimmer arm came around it caused the ice to jam between the
trough and the skimmer arm, causing the suspended foam underneath to push out the
side. This caused excessive suspended solids to be discharged over the weir every time
the clarifier arm came around during the night.
We drained the clarifier that had the most frozen foam and was discharging the most
solids over the weir. Doing this dropped our TSS from 160mg/1 to 40mg/l. When we put
the drained clarifier back in operation and two days later the top froze again. This caused
us to have a weekly violation of 50.2mg/l. Our permit limit is 45.0 mg/1 .This also caused
us not to meet the 85% removal for the month. We believe this to be an upset caused by
extreme weather conditions that were beyond our control. Attached is the temperature log
as recorded for Lincoln County for the month of January 2010 which illustrates the colder
than normal temperatures.
If you have any questions please feel free to give me a call at 704-736-8960.
gaW� A. VtttA-
James S. Rhyne ORC
Lincolnton WWTP
NCO025496
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-061 7
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

Beverly Eaves Perdue
Governor
w AW
NCDEN
North Carolina Department of Environment and
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins
Director
December 20, 2010
Mr. Stephen H. Peeler
Director of Public Utilities
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28092
FILE�fi-14
Natural Resources
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
City of Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County, North Carolina
Dear Mr. Peeler:
Dee Freeman
Secretary
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report for the inspection conducted at the
subject facility on December 17, 2010 by Ms. Donna Hood of this Office. Please inform the facility's Operator -in -
Responsible Charge of our findings by forwarding a copy of the enclosed report.
The ORC should be commended for implementing a comprehensive operation and maintenance schedule as well
as record keeping system.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions concerning this report, please
do not hesitate to contact Ms. Hood or me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Robert B. Krebs.
Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
Enclosure
DH
Mooresville Regional Office
Location: 610 East Center Ave., Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] l Customer Service:1-877-623-6748
Internet: www.ncwaterquality.org
An Equal Opportunity 1 Affirmative Action Employer — 50% Recycled110% Post Consumer paper
On
e
NCarolina
atllt'll y

United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington, D.C. 20460
OMB No. 2040-0057
Water Compliance inspection Report
Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 I NI 2 151 31 NCO085588 111 121 10/12/17 1 17 181 r1 191 gI 20I 1I
Remarks
21111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111116
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating 31 QA-----------------------Reserved---------- — ---
671 1.0 169 701 51 711 1 721 N I 73I I 174 751 I I I I I I 180
t_L_t
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
10:30 AM 10/12/17
05/12/01
Lincolnton WTP
Exit Time/Date
Permit Expiration Date
1338 Reepsville Rd
Lincolnton NC 28093
01:00 PM 10/12/17
10/07/31
Name(s) of Onsite Representative (s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
Dorus Calvin Thornburg/ORC/704-736-8970/
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Stepphen H Peeler,PO Box 617 Lincolnton NC Contacted
280930617//704-736-8980/7047368959 No
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenance Records/Reports
Self -Monitoring Program Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s) of Inspector(s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Donn Hoo MRO WQ//704-663-1699 Ext.2193/
/P/�
i
Si nature of Management PA Revi er A ency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers ate
�� 1, C
Ma cia 1 occo MRWQ//704-663-1699 Ext.2204/
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
Page # 1

NPDES
yr/molday
31 NCO085588 111 121 10/12/17 1
17
Inspection Type
181 C I
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
Page # 2

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 12/17/2010
Owner -Facility: Lincolnton VVTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application? ■ n n ❑
Is the facility as described in the permit? ■ n n n
# Are there any special conditions for the permit? n ■ n n
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ■ n n n
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? ■ n n n
Comment: The permit renewal package was submitted on 1/26/2010. The facility has
not received a draft permit at this time. The expired permit continues to be enforce until
the issuance of a new permit.
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ■ n n n
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable Solids, pH, DO, Sludge ■ n n n
Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment: The facility appeared to be well maintained and operated at the time of the
inspection.
Record Keeping
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit?
■
n
n
n
Is all required information readily available, complete and current?
■
Cl
n
n
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)?
■
n
n
n
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs?
■
n
n
n
Is the chain -of -custody complete?
■
n
n
n
Dates, times and location of sampling
■
Name of individual performing the sampling
■
Results of analysis and calibration
■
Dates of analysis
■
Name of person performing analyses
■
Transported COCs
■
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters?
■
n
n
n
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users and DWQ?
■
n
n
n
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24/7 with a certified operator on each shift?
n
n
■
n
Is the ORC visitation log available and current?
■
n
❑
n
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification?
■
n
n
n
Page # 3

Permit: NCO085588 Owner -Facility: Lincolnton wTP
Inspection Date: 12/17/2010 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Record Keeping
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification?
■
❑
n
❑
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site?
■
n
n
n
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review?
■
n
n
n
Comment: DMRs for September 2009-August 2010 were reviewed for the inspection.
No violations were reported for the review period.
Laboratory
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory?
■
n
n
n
Are all other parameters(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab?
■
n
n
n
# Is the facility using a contract lab?
■
n
n
n
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees Celsius)?
■
n
n
n
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees?
n
n
■
n
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees?
n
n
■
n
Comment: The City of Lincolnton WTP holds field laboratory certification #5060. Prism
Labs (#402) performs all other necessary analyses.
Lagoons
Yes
No
NA
NE
Type of lagoons?
# Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit?
1
Are lagoons operated in?
# Is a re -circulation line present?
n
n
■
n
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials?
■
n
n
n
# Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable?
n
n
■
n
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation?
■
n
n
n
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon?
■
n
n
n
Are dikes free of seepage?
■
n
n
n
Are dikes free of erosion?
■
In
n
n
Are dikes free of burrowing animals?
■
n
n
n
# Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple locations?
n
n
n
■
# If excessive algae is present, has barley straw been used to help control the growth?
n
n
■
n
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds?
■
n
In
n
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting?
■
n
n
n
Page # 4
11

Permit: NC0085588
Inspection Date: 12/17/2010
Owner -Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Lagoons
Yes
No
NA
NE
Comment:
Solids Handling Equipment
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is the equipment operational?
■
n
n
n
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
■
n
n
n
Is storage adequate?
■
n
n
n
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
n
n
n
■
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
■
n
n
n
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
■
n
n
n
The facility has an approved sludge management plan?
■
n
n
n
Comment: The centrifuge was not in operation at the time of the inspection. The area
was clean and well maintained. The facility disposes alum sludge at the Lincoln County
Landfill.
De -chlorination
Yes
No
NA
NE
Type of system ?
Liquid
Is the feed ratio proportional to chlorine amount (1 to 1)?
■
n
n
n
Is storage appropriate for cylinders?
n
n
■
o
# Is de -chlorination substance stored away from chlorine containers?
o
n
■
n
Comment:
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
n
n
■
o
Are tablet de -chlorinators operational?
n
n
■
n
Number of tubes in use?
Comment: Sodium bisulfite is used for dechloination.
Flow Measurement - Effluent
Yes
No
NA
NE
# Is flow meter used for reporting?
n
n
■
o
Is flow meter calibrated annually?
n
n
■
n
Is the flow meter operational?
❑
❑
■
n
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter?
n
n
■
n
Comment: Effluent flow is calculated by pump run times.
Effluent Sampling
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is composite sampling flow proportional?
nn■0
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
■
n
n
n
Page
# 5

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 12/17/2010
Effluent Sampling
Is proper volume collected?
Is the tubing clean?
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees Celsius)?
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type representative)?
Comment:
Effluent Pipe
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained?
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris?
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly?
Comment: The receiving stream appeared unaffected by the discharge at the time of
the inspection.
■ n n n
■ n n n
nn■o
Upstream / Downstream Sampling Yes No NA NE
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and sampling location)? ■ n n fl
Comment:
Page # 6

Oho `9pG
C7 'C
Mr. Stephen H. Peeler
Director of Public Utilities
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Dear Mr. Peeler:
William G. Ross Jr., Secret 6
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resourc
Coleen Sullins, Director
Division of Water Quality
August 20, 2008
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
City of Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County, North Carolina
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report for the inspection
conducted at the subject facility on August 18, 2008 by Ms. Donna Hood of this Office. Please
inform the facility's Operator -in -Responsible Charge of our findings by forwarding a copy of the
enclosed report.
The ORC should be commended for implementing a comprehensive operation and maintenance
schedule as well as record keeping system.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions concerning this
report, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Hood or me at [phone].
Sincerely,
Robert B. Krebs.
Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection Section
Enclosure
cc: Lincoln County Health Department
DH
N. C. Division of Water Quality, Mooresville Regional Office, 610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301, Mooresville NC 28115 [phone] Customer Service
1-877-623-6748

United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington, D C. 20460
OMB No 2040-0057
Water Compliance Inspection Report
Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 I NI 2 15I 3I NC0085598 111 121 09/08/18 117 181 CI 19I SI 20I I
Remarks
21111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111116
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating 131 CA --------------------------- Reserved ----------------------
67I 1.5 169 701 4 I 71 I I 721 N I 731 I 174 751 I I I I I I 180
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
01:35 PM 08/08/18
05/12/01
Lincolnton WTP
Exit Time/Date
Permit Expiration Date
1338 Reepsville Rd
Lincolnton NC 28093
03:30 PM 08/08/18
10/07/31
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
Dorus Calvin Thornburg/ORC/704-736-8970/
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Contacted
Stephen H Peeler,PO Box 617 Lincolnton NC
No
28092//704-736-8980/7047368959
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit ■ Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenance Records/Reports
Self -Monitoring Program Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and,§ignature(s) of Inspector(s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Donna Hood =' / MRO WQ//704-663-1699 Ext.2193/ r
Sig re o Management Q A Review Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Mar is A locco MRO WQ//704-663-1699 Ext.2204/
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
Page # 1

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 08/18/2008
Owner -Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application? n n ■ n
Is the facility as described in the permit? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
# Are there any special conditions for the permit? n ■ ❑ n
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public? ■ n n n
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection? ■ n n n
Comment: The City of Lincolnton WTP's permit is effective from 12/1/2005-7/31/2010.
The new TRC limit became effective on 6/2007. Authorization to Construct No.
085588A01 was issued on 2/13/2007 for the addition of dechlorination facilities.
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ■ n n n
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable Solids, pH, DO, Sludge ■ n n n
Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment: The facility appeared well maintained and operated at the time of the
inspection.
Record Keeping
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit?
■
n
n
n
Is all required information readily available, complete and current?
■
n
n
n
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)?
■
n
n
n
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs?
■
n
❑
❑
Is the chain -of -custody complete?
■
n
n
n
Dates, times and location of sampling
■
Name of individual performing the sampling
■
Results of analysis and calibration
■
Dates of analysis
■
Name of person performing analyses
■
Transported COCs
■
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters?
■
n
n
n
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users and DWQ?
■
n
n
n
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24/7 with a certified operator on each shift?
■
n
n
n
Is the ORC visitation log available and current?
■
n
n
n
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification?
■
❑
❑
❑
Page # 3

Permit: NCO085588 Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Date: 08/18/2008 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Record Keeping
Yes No NA NE
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification?
■ n n n
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site?
■ n n n
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review?
■ n n n
Comment: DMRs for June 2007-May 2008 were reviewed for the inspection. No
violations were reported for the review period.
Laboratory
Yes No NA NE
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory?
■ n n n
Are all other parameters(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab?
■ n n n
# Is the facility using a contract lab?
■ n n n
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees Celsius)?
■ n n n
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees?
n n ■ n
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees?
n n ■ n
Comment: The City of Lincolnton WTP holds laboratory field certification #5060.
Prism Labs (#402) performs all other required analyses. A laboratory inspection was
performed concurrently with the NPDES inspection. Please refer to the inspection
report by Mr. Chet Whiting of this Office for any laboratory recommendations.
Solids Handling Equipment
Yes No NA NE
Is the equipment operational?
■ n n n
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
■ n n n
Is storage adequate?
■ In In n
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
n n n ■
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
■ n n n
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
n n n ■
The facility has an approved sludge management plan?
■ n n n
Comment: All sludge is dewatered by centrifuge and then disposed of at the county
landfill. The centrifuge was not being utilized at the time of the inspection. It is typically
used once a week.
Lagoons
Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
# Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit?
1
Are lagoons operated in?
# Is a re -circulation line present? n n ■ n
Page # 4

Permit: NC0085588
Inspection Date: 08/18/2008
Lagoons
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials?
# Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable?
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation?
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon?
Are dikes free of seepage?
Are dikes free of erosion?
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Are dikes free of burrowing animals?
# Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple locations?
# If excessive algae is present, has barley straw been used to help control the growth?
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds?
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting?
Comment:
Type of system ?
Is the feed ratio proportional to chlorine amount (1 to 1)?
Is storage appropriate for cylinders?
# Is de -chlorination substance stored away from chlorine containers?
Comment:
Are the tablets the proper size and type?
Are tablet de -chlorinators operational?
Number of tubes in use?
Comment: A liquid drip feed of sodium bisulfite is used for dechlorination.
Pump Station - Effluent
Is the pump wet well free of bypass lines or structures?
Are all pumps present?
Are all pumps operable?
Are float controls operable?
Is SCADA telemetry available and operational?
Is audible and visual alarm available and operational?
■nnn
nn■n
■nnn
■nnn
■ n n n
■nnn
■ n n n
■nnn
nn■n
■nnn
■ n n n
Yes
No
NA
NE
Liquid
nn■n
nn■o
■
n
n
n
nn■n
nn■n
Page # 5

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 08/18/2008
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Pump Station - Effluent
Yes
No
NA
NE
Comment. -
Flow Measurement - Effluent
Yes
No
NA
NE
# Is flow meter used for reporting?
n
n
■
n
Is flow meter calibrated annually?
n
n
■
❑
Is the flow meter operational?
n
n
■
❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter?
n
n
■
n
Comment: Effluent flow is measured by pump flow rates multiplied by pump run time.
Effluent Sampling
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is composite sampling flow proportional?
n
n
■
n
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
■
❑
n
n
Is proper volume collected?
■
n
n
n
Is the tubing clean?
n
n
■
n
# Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at less than or equal to 6.0 degrees Celsius)?
■
n
n
n
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type representative)?
■
n
n
n
Comment:
Effluent Pipe
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained?
■
n
n
n
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris?
■
' n
n
n
n
n
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly? n - ■ -
Comment: At the time of the inspection the South Fork was swollen from recent rains.
Upstream / Downstream Sampling Yes No NA NE
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and sampling location)? ■ ❑ ❑ n
Comment:
Page # 6

VVAa i L ..L.Ws ----
s QLN�QN
OF LILAC
000,
r
I.
II.
f
1 .u'
F
J �
RECEIVED
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
�AWATERTREATMEPlP4AUTER QUALITY
WATER TREATMENT�TSQURCE BRANCH
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
2008 — 2009
General Information
Facility System Name
Responsible Entity:
Person in Charge/Contact:
Applicable Permits
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment P)
NPDES Permit NC-00855W(Water Treatment Plant.)
Description of Treatment Process
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Slud
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary tre
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
608 WEST HWY. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. BOX 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH i
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone] ?

4

In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin:
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

4
III. SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008-2009
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant:
The Wastewater Treatment Plant had four reported violations for fiscal year 2008 - 2009. These
violations were for two weekly and two monthly Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
violations in May 2009 and June 2009.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2008-2009):
May 2009 Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
The BOD violation was for violation for our weekly and monthly average.
Please see the attached letter for an explanation of the causes of the
violations.
June 2009 Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
The BOD violation was for violation for our weekly and monthly average.
Please see the attached letter for an explanation of the causes of the
violations
Spills (for the fiscal year 2008-2009):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2008-2009.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant:
The Water Treatment Plant had no reported violation for fiscal year 2008 — 2009.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2008-2009):
No reported violations for the fiscal year 2008-2009.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2007-2008):
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2008-2009.

A
IV.
Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 17, 2009 and
August 19, 2009 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.
V. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or customers of
the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been notified of its
availability.
Jaras S. Rhyne
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
D. C. Thornburg III
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
6-IZ-e1
Date
Date

CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
City of Lincolnton WWTP
Post Office Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28093
NPDES #NC0025496
July 28, 2009
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter serves as a written response to the weekly and monthly BOD violation, and the
BOD monthly removal rate violation that occurred in May and June 2009. The following
will outline the events that led to the violations and the corrective actions taken following
the violations.
On May 22, 2009, we began using a new shipment of sodium bi-sulfite for
dechlorination. Tuesday, May 26th was the first day back from the Memorial Day holiday
and our pH in the effluent composite sample was abnormally low at 5.5 standard units.
The abnormally low pH composite sample had to be adjusted up to meet the BOD test
minimum required 6.5 standard units. Sodium hydroxide was used to raise the pH level to
6.6 standard units, however it took a significant amount of sodium hydroxide to raise the
pH to the minimum acceptable range for BOD testing.
The BOD sample for May 26th was set up on May 27th. Normally, we use 150 to 250 mis
to set up the effluent BOD samples. However, on the May 26 sample, we were only able
to use a 1 ml and 5ml BOD sample because the sample depleted the oxygen on the lst
day.
We discussed this situation with Gary Francies of the Asheville NCDENR to see if we
had any problems with our BOD test. We determined that we had a chemical problem
with our shipment of sodium bi-sulfite. We ordered a new shipment of sodium bi-sulfite
from another vendor and started using this shipment on June 6, 2009. We have not had
any low composite sample pH or BOD problems since we began using the sodium bi-
sulfite from the other vendor.
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
Per the requirements of House Bill 1160 of the Clean Water Act of 1999, the City of
Lincolnton has prepared an Annual Performance Report for the reporting period of
July, 2008— June, 2009. A copy of the report is on file at the following locations for
public review.
Wastewater Treatment Plant
608 W. Hwy. 150 Bypass
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Contact: Jamie Rhyne, Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
Public Works & Utilities
128 Motz Ave.
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Contact Steve Peeler, Director Public Works & Utilities
Water Treatment Plant
1338 Reepsville Road
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Contact D.C. Thornburg, Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-061 7
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

V tA # R/'
CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
August 4, 2008
To: Kerr T. Stevens
From: James Rhyne
Re: Performance Annual Report
Dear Kerr T. Stevens,
Enclosed is the City of Lincolnton, NC Performance Annual Report. The report covers the fiscal year of
July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008. This report includes information on the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the
Water Treatment Plant alum basin.
If you need any additional information, please contact me at [phone].
James S. Rhyne
ORC Wastewater Treatment Plant
AL
NC DENR MRO
M-Surface Water Protection
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • t_INCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
2007 — 2008
I. General Information
Facility System Name: City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
Responsible Entity: City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
Person in Charge/Contact: James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
Applicable Permits: NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
14bt�' _ Water Treatment Plant.)
I. Description of Treatment Process:
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • UNCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

II. Performance
SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The wastewater treatment plant had seven reported violations for fiscal year 2007 - 2008. These
violations were for three Antimony violations in September 2007, October 2007 and January
2008. We also had four Phenol violations, one in November 2007, two in December 2007 and
one in February 2008.All the violations were daily maximum violations.
Violations (for the fiscal vear 2007-2008)
September 2007: Antimony
The Antimony violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit
requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug
load from our industries. Our facility was back in compliance the following
week.
October 2007: Antimony
The Antimony violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit
requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug
load .We started to sample all industries for Antimony to try to find the source.
Our facility was back in compliance the following week for Antimony.
November 2007: Phenol
The Phenol violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit requirement
in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug load. Samples
that week on some of our industries showed high levels of Phenol. Our facility
was back in compliance the following week for Phenol.
December 2007: Phenol
There were two Phenol violations in December 2007. These were for violation of
our daily maximum limit requirement. The violations were due to continued high
levels of phenol coming from industries.
January 2008: Antimony
The Antimony violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit
requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug
load from our industries. Our facility was back in compliance the following
week.

February 2008: Phenol
The Phenol violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit requirement
in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug load from our
industries. Our facility was back in compliance the following week.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2007-2008)
There were no spills reported for this reporting period.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
The Water Treatment Plant had no reported violation for fiscal year 2007 — 2008.
Violations (for the fiscal year 2007-2008)
No reported violations for the fiscal year 2007-2008.
Spills (for the fiscal year 2007-2008)
No reported spills for the fiscal year 2007-2008.
III. Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 11, 2008 and
August 13, 2008 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.

IV. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or
customers of the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been
notified of its availability.
— a%Me4A - QVV--
J es S. Rhyne
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
e
D. C. Thornburg III
Water Treatment P1ant Supenntendent
City of Lincolnton
8- 4 - 08
Date
dv -
Date

CERTIFIED MAIL
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED
Mr. Stephen Peeler
Director of Public Utilities
City of Lincolnton
PO Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28092
Subject
Dear Mr. Peeler:
ptt- ( "
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
March 26, 2007
7006 2760 0001 8493 7408
Notice of Violation - Effluent Limitations
Tracking #: NOV-2007-LV-0165
City of Lincolnton WTP WWTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County
A review of the October 2006 self -monitoring report for the subject facility revealed a violation
of the following parameter at Outfall 001:
Date Parameter Reported Value Permit Limit
10/18/06 Total suspended solids 60.0 mg/1 45.0 mg/1 (Daily maximum)
Remedial actions, if not already implemented, should be taken to correct any problems. The
Division of Water Quality may pursue enforcement actions for this and any additional violations. If the
violations are of a continuing nature, not related to operation and/or maintenance problems, and you
anticipate remedial construction activities, then you may wish to consider applying for a Special Order by
Consent. You may contact Ms. Marcia Allocco of this Office for additional information.
If you have questions concerning this matter, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Allocco or me
at [phone].
cc:
NCDENR
Point Source Branch
Lincoln County Health Department
Sincerely,
�t
John Lesley
Acting Regional Supervisor
Surface Water Protection
NNao Carolina
turally
Mooresville Regional Office Division of Water Quality Phone [phone]
Internet: www ncwaterauality org 610 East Center Ave, Suite 301 Mooresville, NC 28115 Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer— 50% Recycled110% Post Consumer Paper
Customer Service
1-877-623-6748

Michael F. Easley, Governor
WAr�9p�
February 13, 2007
Mr. Steve Peeler, Public Works & Utilities
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28093-0617
Dear Mr. Peeler:
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
SUBJECT: Authorization to Construct
A to C No. 085588AOI
City of Lincolnton
Lincolnton WTP
Dechlorination Facilities
Lincoln County
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
A fast track application for Authorization to Construct dechlorination facilities was
received on January 23, 2007, by the Division. Authorization is hereby granted for the
construction of modifications to the existing Lincolnton WTP, with discharge of filter backwash
water into the Catawba River in the Catawba River Basin.
This authorization results in no increase in design or permitted capacity and is awarded
for the construction of the following specific modifications:
Installation of a dechlorination system utilizing sodium bisulfite pursuant to the
fast track application received on January 23, 2007, and in conformity with the
Minimum Design Criteria for Dechlorination Facilities.
This Authorization to Construct is issued in accordance with Part III, Paragraph A of
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588 issued November 14, 2005, and shall be subject to revocation
unless the wastewater treatment facilities are constructed in accordance with the conditions and
limitations specified in Permit No. NC0085588.
In the event that the facilities fail to perform satisfactorily, including the creation of
nuisance conditions, the Permittee shall take immediate corrective action, including those as may
be required by this Division, such as the construction of additional or replacement wastewater
treatment or disposal facilities.
The Mooresville Regional Office, telephone number [phone] shall be notified at
least forty-eight (48) hours in advance of operation of the installed facilities so that an on site
jkaro ina
vturay
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1617 Phone [phone] Customer Service
Internet: www.ncwatergualdy.org 512 N. Salisbury St. Raleigh, NC 27604 FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer — 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper

Mr. Peeler
February 13, 2007
Page 2
inspection can be made. Such notification to the regional supervisor shall be made during the
normal office hours from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday, excluding State
Holidays.
Pursuant to 15A NCAC 2H .0140, upon completion of construction and prior to operation
of these permitted facilities, the completed Engineering Certification form attached to this permit
shall be submitted to the address provided on the form.
Upon classification of the facility by the Certification Commission, the Permittee shall
employ a certified wastewater treatment plant operator to be in responsible charge (ORC) of the
wastewater treatment facilities. The operator must hold a certificate of the type and grade at least
equivalent to or greater than the classification assigned to the wastewater treatment facilities by
the Certification Commission.
3
The Permittee must also employ a certified back-up operator of the appropriate type and
grade to comply with the conditions of T15A:8G.0202. The ORC of the facility must visit each
Class I facility at least weekly and each Class II, III and IV facility at least daily, excluding
weekends and holidays, must properly manage the facility, must document daily operation and
maintenance of the facility, and must comply with all other conditions of T15A:8G.0202.
A copy of the approved plans and specifications shall be maintained on file by the
Permittee for the life of the facility.
During the construction of the proposed additions/modifications, the permittee shall
continue to properly maintain and operate the existing wastewater treatment facilities at all times,
and in such a manner, as necessary to comply with the effluent limits specified in the NPDES
Permit.
You are reminded that it is mandatory for the project to be constructed in accordance
with the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control Act, and, when applicable, the North
Carolina Dam Safety Act. In addition, the specifications must clearly state what the contractor's
responsibilities shall be in complying with these Acts.
Prior to entering into any contract(s) for construction, the recipient must have obtained all
applicable permits from the State.
Failure to abide by the requirements contained in this Authorization to Construct may
subject the Permittee to an enforcement action by the Division of Water Quality in accordance
with North Carolina General Statute 143-215.6A to 143-215.6C.
The issuance of this Authorization to Construct does not preclude the Permittee from
complying with any and all statutes, rules, regulations, or ordinances which may be imposed by
other government agencies (local, state, and federal) which have jurisdiction.
14

FF
Mr. Peeler
February 13, 2007
Page 3
If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact
Cecil G. Madden, Jr., P.E. at telephone number [phone].
Sincerely,
.�G
/ Alan W. Klimek, P.
v
AR/cgm
cc: Donald T. Garbrick, P.E., Pease Associates, Charlotte
Lincoln County Health Department
Technical Assistance and Certification Unit
Daniel Blaisdell, P.E.
Point Source Branch, NPDES Program
Cecil G. Madden, Jr., P.E.
Anita Reed, E.I.
ATC File

J"'-VA-6
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P. E., Director
Division of Water Quality
December 2, 2005
Mr. Stephen H. Peeler
-Director o lic Utilities
City of Lincolnton
P.O. Box 617
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
City of Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County, North Carolina
Dear Mr. Peeler:
Enclosed please find a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report for the inspection
conducted at the subject facility on November 30, 2005 by Ms. Donna Hood of this Office. Please
inform the facility's Operator -in -Responsible Charge of our findings by forwarding a copy of the
enclosed report.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions concerning this
report, please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Hood or me at [phone].
Sincerely,
(� n R
1n D. Rex Gleason, P.E.
Surface Water Protection Regional Supervisor
Enclosure
cc: Lincoln County Health Department
[WWI
N. C. Division of Water Quality, Mooresville Regional Office, 610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301, Mooresville NC 28115 [phone] Customer Service
1-877-623-6748

United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington, D.C. 20460
OMB No. 2040-0057
Water Compliance Inspection Report
Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 INI 2 I_ JS 31 NCO085588 I11 121 05/11/30 I17 18ICI 19ISI 20I I
!t.! —J
Remarks
211IIIIIIIIII111111IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating B1 CA1 ---------------------------Reserved----------------------
671 I69- -- -----701
_I --- --- 71I --72I1 - 73L _jj74 751- —I- I- -I I - I -I 80
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
Lincolnton WTP
01:00 PM 05/11/30
00/11/01
Exit Time/Date
Permit Expiration Date
1338 Reepsville Rd
Lincolnton NC 28093
03:00 PM 05/11/30
05/07/31
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
Dorus Calvin Thornburg/ORC/704-736-8970/
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Stephen H Peeler,128 Motz Ave Lincolnton NC 28092/Public Works Contacted
Director/704-736-8940/7047368959 No
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit ■ Flow Measurement .Operations & Maintenance Records/Reports
Self -Monitoring Program Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s) of Inspector(s) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Donna�'H od , MRO WQ///
2
/0Signature
.�2
of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Richard M Bridgeman MRO WQ//704-663-1699 Ext.264/
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.
Page # 1

PV
Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 11/30/2005
Owner -Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Permit Yes No NA NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application?
❑
❑
■
n
Is the facility as described in the permit?
■
Cl
n
n
# Are there any special conditions for the permit?
❑
■
❑
❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public?
■
n
❑
❑
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection?
■
❑
❑
❑
Comment: The new permit is effective from 12/1/2005-7/31/2010. A TRC limit has
been added and becomes effective on 6/2007.
Operations & Maintenance Yes No NA NE
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for ex: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable Solids, pH, DO, Sludge ■ Cl ❑ ❑
Judge, and other that are applicable?
Comment:
Lagoons Yes No NA NE
Type of lagoons?
# Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit? 1
Are lagoons operated in?
# Is a re -circulation line present?
❑
❑
■ ❑
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials?
■
n
n n
# Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable?
❑
❑
■ ❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation?
■
n
n n
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon?
■
❑
❑ ❑
Are dikes free of seepage?
■
❑
n ❑
Are dikes free of erosion?
■
❑
❑ ❑
Are dikes free of burrowing animals?
■
n
n n
# Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple locations?
■
❑
❑ ❑
# If excessive algae is present, has barley straw been used to help control the growth?
❑
❑
■ ❑
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds?
■
❑
❑ ❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting?
■
❑
❑ ❑
Comment:
Laboratory Yes No NA NE
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Page # 3

Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 11/30/2005
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
'IN
Laboratory
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are all other parameters(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab?
■
❑
❑
❑
# Is the facility using a contract lab?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at 1.0 to 4.4 degrees Celsius)?
■
❑
❑
❑
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees?
❑
❑
■
❑
-----..- - - --- -- - -
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees?
—
—
-
■
- - - - -
Comment: City of Lincolnton holds field certification #5060. Pace Analytical (#12 )
performs other required laboratory analyses.
Flow Measurement - Effluent
Yes
No
NA
NE
# Is flow meter used for reporting?
❑
❑
■
0
Is flow meter calibrated annually?
❑
❑
■
❑
Is the flow meter operational?
❑
❑
■
❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter?
❑
❑
■
❑
Comment: Effluent flow is measured by pump flow rates multiplied by pump run time.
Record Keeping
Yes
No
NA
NE
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is all required information readily available, complete and current?
■
❑
❑
❑
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)?
■
❑
❑
❑
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the chain -of -custody complete?
■
❑
❑
❑
Dates, times and location of sampling
■
Name of individual performing the sampling
■
Results of analysis and calibration
■
Dates of analysis
■
Name of person performing analyses
■
Transported COCs
■
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters?
■
❑
❑
❑
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users and DWQ?
■
❑
❑
❑
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24/7 with a certified operator on each shift?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the ORC visitation log available and current?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification?
■
❑
❑
❑
Page # 4

PV
Permit: NCO085588
Inspection Date: 11/30/2005
Owner - Facility: Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Record Keeping
Yes No
NA
NE
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification?
■ ❑
❑
❑
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site?
■ ❑
❑
❑
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Comment: DMRs of November 2004-October 2005 were reviewed for the inspection.
No violations were noted. The V TP's record keeping _was _commendable. _
Effluent Sampling Yes No NA NE
Is composite sampling flow proportional? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
■
❑
❑
Is proper volume collected?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the tubing clean?
❑
❑
■
❑
Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at 1.0 to 4.4 degrees Celsius)?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type representative)?
■
❑
❑
❑
Comment:
Upstream / Downstream Sampling
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and sampling location)? ■
❑
Cl
❑
Comment:
Solids Handling Equipment
Yes
No
NA
NE
Is the equipment operational?
❑
❑
❑
■
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
❑
❑
❑
■
Is storage adequate?
■
❑
❑
❑
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
❑
❑
■
❑
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
❑
❑
■
❑
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
❑
❑
■
❑
The facility has an approved sludge management plan?
■
❑
❑
❑
Comment: All sludge is dewatered by centrifuge and then disposed of at the county
landfill.
Effluent Pipe Yes No NA NE
Is right of way to the outfall properly maintained? ■ ❑ ❑ ❑
Are the receiving water free of foam other than trace amounts and other debris? ■ ❑ ❑ Cl
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating properly? ❑ ❑ ■ ❑
Comment: At the time of the inspection the South Fork was swollen from recent rains.
Page # 5

CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT''
WATER TREATMENT PLANT L E IVE C
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
2006 — 2007
I. General Information
Facility System Name:
Responsible Entity:
Person in Charge/Contact:
Applicable Permits:
NOV 18 2007
NO DENR MRO
DWO-Surt0ce %later Protoctioi
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
NPDES Permi ater Treatment Plant.)
I Description of Treatment Process_
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
P.O. 90X 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAx [phone]

In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

II. Performance
SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006-2007
City of Linco[nton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The wastewater treatment plant had two reported violations for fiscal year 2006 - 2007. These
violations were for two missed samples of Antimony in December 2006 and a violation of our
daily maximum limit requirement for Antimony on January 10, 2007.
Violations (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
December 2006: Antimony
Due to an oversight of our NPDES Permit, our facility failed to perform two
additional samples for Antimony in December 2006. The sampling frequency
had been 2 samples per month for the year prior to December 2006. Therefore,
our facility did not realize until January 2007, that the sampling frequency had
changed to a weekly sampling requirement starting in December 2006.
Beginning January 2007, Antimony samples were collected per the requirement
in our NPDES Permit.
January 2007: Antimony
The Antimony violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit
requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug
load from a closing industry that was cleaning out their wastewater holding tanks
and discharged this water to our W)WTP. Our facility was back in compliance the
following week for Antimony.
Spills (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
There were no spills reported for this reporting period.
Lincolnton City of Water Treatment Plant
The Water Treatment Plant had one reported violation for fiscal year 2006 - 2007
Violations (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
October 2006: Total Suspended Solids
The Total Suspended Solids violation was for violation of our daily maximum
limit requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected
contract laboratory error.

Spills (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
No Reported Spills (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
III. Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 6, 2007 and
August 8, 2007 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.
IV. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or
customers of the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been
notified of its availability.
S. RhyneJ!es
ewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
D. C. Thornburg III 01
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
8-1-07
Date
2 2-1 11 %
Date

0
CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
August 1, 2007
To: Kerr T. Stevens
From: James Rhyne
Re: Performance Annual Report
Dear Ken- T. Stevens,
Enclosed is the City of Lincolnton, NC Performance Annual Report. The report covers the fiscal year of
July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007. This report includes information on the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the
Water Treatment Plant alum basin.
If you need any additional information, please contact me at [phone].
James S. Rhyne
ORC Wastewater Treatment Plant
P.O. BOX 617 - t_INCOLNTON,'NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] - FAx [phone]

P
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
CITY OF LINCOLNTON
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT Nov 2 8 2007
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
NC DENR MRO
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORTDWQ-Surface Water Protection
2006 — 2007
I. General Information
Facility System Name:
Responsible Entity:
Person in Charge/Contact:
Applicable Permits:
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
NPDES Perini (Water Treatment Plant.)
I Description of Treatment Process:
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
P.O. BOX 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

rpv
In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening Unit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, microorganisms treat the wastewater. Our primary treatment
consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the Oxidation
Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and is mixed
with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater around
the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic materials
in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The wastewater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City of'Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant Alum Basin
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.

FIV
II. Performance
SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006-2007
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The wastewater treatment plant had two reported violations for fiscal year 2006 - 2007. These
violations were for two missed samples of Antimony in December 2006 and a violation of our
daily maximum limit requirement for Antimony on January 10, 2007.
Violations (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
December 2006: Antimony
Due to an oversight of our NPDES Permit, our facility failed to perform two
additional samples for Antimony in December 2006. The sampling frequency
had been 2 samples per month for the year prior to December 2006. Therefore,
our facility did not realize until January 2007, that the sampling frequency had
changed to a weekly sampling requirement starting in December 2006.
Beginning January 2007, Antimony samples were collected per the requirement
in our NPDES Permit.
January 2007: Antimony
The Antimony violation was for violation of our daily maximum limit
requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected slug
load from a closing industry that was cleaning out their wastewater holding tanks
and discharged this water to our WWTP. Our facility was back in compliance the
following week for Antimony.
Spills (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
There were no spills reported for this reporting period.
Lincolnton City of Water Treatment Plant
The Water Treatment Plant had one reported violation for fiscal year 2006 - 2007
Violations (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
October 2006: Total Suspended Solids
The Total Suspended Solids violation was for violation of our daily maximum
limit requirement in our NPDES permit. The violation was due to a suspected
contract laboratory error.

VFV
Spills (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
No Reported Spills (For the fiscal year 2006-2007)
III. Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 6, 2007 and
August 8, 2007 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for
public review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office at 128 Motz Avenue.
IV. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my
knowledge. I further certify that this report has been made available to the users or
customers of the City of Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been
notified of its availability.
1"."d. U.,
es S. Rhyne 017
astewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
D. C. Thornburg III
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
8-1-07
Date
�7 /21 A
Date

P 7
CITY OF LINCOLNTON WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
August 1, 2007
To: Kerr T. Stevens
From: James Rhyne
Re: Performance Annual Report
Dear Kerr T. Stevens,
Enclosed is the City of Lincolnton, NC Performance Annual Report. The report covers the fiscal year of
July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007. This report includes information on the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the
Water Treatment Plant alum basin.
If you need any additional information, please contact me at [phone].
a�v�,4,
nom
James S. Rhyne
ORC Wastewater Treatment Plant
P.O. BOX 617 • LINCOLNTON,'NORTH CAROLINA 28093-0617
PHONE [phone] • FAx [phone]

City of Lincolnton
A to C No. 085588AOI
February 13, 2007
Engineer's Certification
I, , as a duly registered Professional Engineer in
the State of North Carolina, having been authorized to observe (periodically/weekly/full time)
the construction of the modifications and improvements to the Lincolnton WTP, located on
Reepsville Road in Lincoln County for the City of Lincolnton, hereby state that, to the best of
my abilities, due care and diligence was used in the observation of the following construction:
Installation of a dechlorination system utilizing sodium bisulfate pursuant to the
fast track application received on January 23, 2007, and in conformity with the
Minimum Design Criteria for Dechlorination Facilities.
I certify that the construction of the above referenced project was observed to be built
within substantial compliance and intent of the approved plans and specifications.
Signature
Date
Registration No
Send to: Construction Grants & Loans
DENR/DWQ
1633 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1633

Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
r" North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
'C Alan W. Klimek, P. E. Director
Division of Water Quality
Mr. Stephen H. Peeler
Director of Public Works
City of Lincolnton
PO Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28093-0617
Dear Mr. Peeler:
September 14, 2005
AND NAT1 : , . , uURCES
1100RESVIP '­s:.:ML OFFI
F ,
SEP 1 9 200')
r
Subject: Draft NPD I JETION
Permit NCO085588
Lincolnton WTP
Lincoln County
Enclosed with this letter is a copy of the draft permit for your facility. Please review the draft very
carefully to ensure thorough understanding of the conditions and requirements it contains.
A Total Residual Chlorine ("TRC") limit has been added to the permit. Please see the attached
TRC policy memo for details. This limit will take effect 18 months after the permit effective date.
Submit any comments to me no later than October 21, 2005. Comments should be sent to the
address listed at the bottom of this page. If no adverse comments are received from the public or
from you, this permit will likely be issued in mid -November, with an effective date of December 1,
2005.
If you have any questions or comments concerning this draft permit, call me at [phone],
extension 361.
Sincerely,
1
Karen Rust
Eastern NPDES Unit
cc: Mr. A. Keith West, P. E., Pease Associates
Mooresville Regional Office Supervisor (Surface Water Protection)
NPDES Files
Central Files
DEH Regional Engineer
NorthCarolma
Xatkully
N. C. Division of Water Quality 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 Phone: [phone] Customer Service
Internet: httpJ/h2o.enr.state.nc.us 512 N. Salisbury St. Raleigh, NC 27604 Fax: [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

-q'4qPermit NC008558
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
PERMIT
TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM
In compliance with the provision of North Carolina General Statute 143-215.1, other lawful
standards and regulations promulgated and adopted by the North Carolina Environmental
Management Commission, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, the
City of Lincolnton
is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at the
Lincolnton WTP
1338 Reepsville Road
Lincolnton
Lincoln County
to receiving waters designated as the South Fork of the Catawba River in the
Catawba River Basin
in accordance with effluent limitations, monitoring requirements, and other
conditions set forth in Parts I, II, III and IV hereof.
This permit shall become effective
This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on July 31, 2010.
Signed this day
Alan W. Klimek, P. E., Director
Division of Water Quality
By Authority of the Environmental Management Commission

PPPPPFP' Permit NC0085588
SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET
All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether for operation or
discharge are hereby revoked. As of this permit issuance, any previously issued
permit bearing this number is no longer effective. Therefore, the exclusive authority
to operate and discharge from this facility arises under the permit conditions,
requirements, terms, and provisions included herein.
The City of Lincolnton is hereby authorized to:
1. Continue to operate a conventional water treatment plant with a discharge of
filter -backwash wastewater using the following processes:
• Mixing
• Flocculation
• Sedimentation
• Filtration
• Sludge dewatering
This facility is located at the Lincolnton WIT (1338 Reepsville Road, Lincolnton) in
Lincoln County.
2. Discharge from said treatment works at the location specified on the attached
map into the South Fork of the Catawba River, classified WS-1V waters in the
Catawba River Basin.

Permit NC0085588
A. (I.) EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS — DRAFT
During the period beginning on the effective date of this permit and lasting until expiration, the Permittee is
authorized to discharge from outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored by the Permittee as
specified below:
EFFLUENT
CHARACTERISTICS
LIMITS
MONITORING REQUIREMENTS
Monthly
Average
Daily
Maximum
Measurement
Frequency
Sample Type
Sample Location
Flow
Weekly
Instantaneous
Effluent
Total Suspended Residue
30.0 mg/L
45.0 mg/L
2/Month
Grab
Effluent
Settleable Solids
0.1 mVL
0.2 mVL
Weekly
Grab
Effluent
Turbidityi
Weekly
Grab
Upstream & Downstream
Iron
Weekly
Grab
Effluent
Total Residual Chlorine2
28 µg/L
Weekly
Grab
Effluent
Aluminum
Weekly
Grab
Effluent
Footnotes:
1. The discharge from this facility shall not cause turbidity in the receiving stream to exceed 50 NTU. If the
instream turbidity exceeds 50 NTU due to natural background conditions, the discharge cannot cause
turbidity to increase in the receiving stream.
2. The limit for total residual chlorine will take effect 18 months after the effective date of the final permit, only
if chlorine is used for disinfection.
All samples must be collected from a typical discharge event.
There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts.

Michae
_A Gov
©IV William G. Ross, Jr., Secretary
NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director
Division of Water Quality
June 19, 2003
TO: NPDES Unit Staff
FROM: David A. Goodrich
NPDES Unit Supervisor
SUBJECT: Total Residual Chlorine Policy for NPDES permits
Every three years the State is required by the Clean Water Act to review its surface water quality standards and
classifications, determine if changes are needed and to make any necessary changes. This review process is referred to
as the "triennial review." Public hearings were held to solicit comments for the 2000-2003 Triennial Review of surface
water quality standards during the summer of 2002. The Hearing Officer's recommendations were presented before
the state's Environmental Management Commission on October 10, 2002.
The Hearing Officer's recommended changes included modifications to the existing standards for Arsenic, Cyanide,
Methylene Blue Active Substances (MBAS) and Total Residual Chlorine (TRC). The Hearing Officer also
recommended the addition of a standard for Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether (MTBE).
All of the Hearing Officer's proposed changes were adopted with the exception of MTBE. The changes took effect
on April 1, 2003. This memo documents the changes to the NPDES permitting policy for TRC limits.
Total Residual Chlorine (TRC)
Previously, TRC had an Action Level Standard, except in designated Trout waters. The Triennial Review changes
modified the TRC Action Level Standard to an Aquatic Life Standard of 17 µg/L. The Aquatic Life Standard will
remain for designated Trout waters.
Aquatic Life Standard —17 µg/L (freshwater only) Trout Waters — 17 µg/L
Revised TRC Policy
➢ TRC limits will be assigned to permit renewals and all new permits issued after April 1, 2003.
➢ Facilities that do not use chlorine will not receive a TRC limit; however, the presence of a chlorine back-up
system to augment UV or other disinfection requires a TRC limit.
➢ Facilities discharging to streams with a 7Q10 <0.05 cfs (zero -flow streams) willreceive a limit of 17 µg/L.
➢ Limits will be capped at 28 µg/L to protect against acute impacts.
It is likely that many facilities will need to add dechlorination (or use another means of disinfection) to comply with
the new TRC standard. Therefore, a compliance schedule of 18 months from the effective date of the permit may
be added to any TRC limit added during the current permit renewal. This time period is allowed in order for the
facility to budget and design/construct the dechlorination and/or alternative disinfection system(s). The NPDES
Unit has promulgated minimum design criteria in order to expedite permitting of dechlorination equipment.
cc: Coleen Sullins
Regional Office Supervisors (Dechlorination guidance attached)
Shannon Langley

n
V�
ITY OF LINCOLNTON
"ASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
...fir
U,
SEP 0 1 200A
CITY OF LINCOLNTON r�i., lea.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT
WATER TREATMENT PLANT
PERFORMANCE ANNUAL REPORT
I. General Information
Facility System Name: City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
City of Lincolnton Water Treatment Plant
Responsible Entity: City of Lincolnton, North Carolina
Person in Charge/Contact: James S. Rhyne, (Wastewater Treatment Plant)
D. C. Thornburg III, (Water Treatment Plant)
Applicable Permits: NPDES Permit NCO025496 (Wastewater Treatment Plant.)
'NMES Permit NCO095588 (Water Treatment Plant.)
Description of Treatment Process:
City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The City of Lincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant is an Activated Sludge treatment process.
The process works in three stages: preliminary treatment, primary treatment and secondary
treatment. The influent wastewater from town comes into the Main Lift Station that then pumps
the wastewater up to the preliminary treatment units.
608 WEST Hwy. 150 BY-PASS • P.O. Box 617 • LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA 2-8093-061 7
PHONE [phone] • FAX [phone]

In the preliminary treatment stage, a Filter/Screening LJnit removes screenings from the
wastewater and the grit is taken out by a Vortex Grit Removal system. The water is then piped
to the Oxidtion Ditch. This starts the primary treatment (biological) phase.
In the primary treatment stage, the wastewater is treated by microorganisms. Our primary
treatment consists of two phases, the Oxidation Ditch and Fine Bubble Aeration Basin. In the
Oxidation Ditch phase, the incoming wastewater flows into the outer ring of the Orbal Ditch and
is mixed with the microorganisms. Rotating discs in the Oxidation Ditch circulate the wastewater
around the outer ring and into the inner ring while the microorganisms breakdown the organic
materials in the wastewater.
The wastewater is then piped to the Aeration Basin. In the Aeration Basin, fine air bubbles are
introduced to the incoming microorganisms and a biomass is formed. These microorganisms,
called bugs, use the oxygen supplied by the fine air bubbles to survive. While passing through
the Aeration Basin, the bugs consume and breakdown the remaining organic waste in the water.
After the Aeration Basin, the water enters into the secondary treatment stage. The waste,.-N•ater
leaving the Aeration Basin is piped into two Final Clarifiers. The water and solids (biomass)
separate during this part of the treatment process. The separated solids are either returned to the
Oxidation Ditch to start the process over again, or wasted to the Diffused Air Floatation unit
(DAF) as sludge. The DAF unit thickens the sludge before it goes to anaerobic digesters for
storage until removal from the plant. The water from the clarifier moves to the disinfection stage
where liquid sodium hypochlorite is fed into the water to reduce pathogens (disease causing
bacteria) to NPDES permit required levels.
Once disinfected, the water is discharged into the South Fork River. The excess sludge is
contracted to and transported by Synagro to permitted farmland sites in Lincoln County, NC for
land application.
City ofLincolnton Water Treatment PlantAlum Basin
The City of Lincolnton Water Plant has a discharge permit for an alum basin. The basin
discharges water into the South Fork River. The alum basin is used for the water plants filters
washes and basin cleanings. The filter washes and/or basin cleanings flow to the basin by
gravity and are allowed to settle. The solids settle to the bottom and clear water remains on top.
The clear water is pumped to the river and the solids are pumped to centrifuge. After drying, the
alum sludge is transported to the Lincoln County Landfill for disposal.
II. Performance
SUMMARY OF SYSTEM PERFORMANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2003-2004
City ofLincolnton Wastewater Treatment Plant
The wastewater treatment plant had six reported violations for fiscal year 2003 - 2004. The violations
were for Total Suspended Solids (TSS) in December 2003, TSS in January 2004, TSS in February 2004,
TSS in March 2004, Phenol in March 2004 and TSS in April 2004. Most of the problems encountered at

the plant during the past year were due to a slug, load received during the Christmas and Nr- fears
Holiday which basically killed the microorganism inventory and the very slow recover' of the
microorganisms and biomass. A change in the design piping of the Oxidation Ditch was also trade. Sincc
this change was made, our WWTP has not had any further TSS violations.
Violations (For the fiscal year 2003-2004)
December 2003: Total Suspended Solids (TSS), (Weekly Limit Violation)
The TSS violation was for violation of our weekly NPDES permit limit. Plant
staff suspects the violation was due to a slug load received during the Christmas
holiday week that caused a major kill of our microorganisms, which in turn,
floated out of the system in our effluent stream.
January 2004: Total Suspended Solids (TSS) (Weekly & Monthly Limit Violation)
The TSS violation was for violation of our weekly and monthly NPDES permit
limit. Plant staff suspects the violation was due to a slug load received during the
Christmas and New years Day holiday week that caused -a complete kill of our
microorganisms and biomass. We re -seeded our plant from another source to
rebuild our solids inventory. However, our facility did not have sufficient time to
recover for us to achieve the 85% TSS removal rate required by our NPDES
permit.
Februan 2004: Total Suspended Solids (TSS) (85% Removal Rate)
The TSS violation was for violation of our monthly 85% removal rate
requirement in our NPDES permit limit. Due to slow recovery time from the slug
load received at the facility, our facility did not meet the 85% TSS removal rate
required by_our NPDES permit.
March 2004: Phenol (Daily Limit)
The violation was for violating our NPDES permit limit (daily maximum) for
Phenol. Plant staff suspects the violation was due to a slug load. Our facility was
back in compliance the following week for Phenol.
March 2004: Total Suspended Solids (TSS), (85% Removal Rate)
The TSS violation was for violation of our monthly 85% removal rate
requirement in our NPDES permit limit. Due to slow high monthly effluent TSS
levels, our facility did not meet the 85% TSS removal rate required by our
NPDES permit.
April 2004: Total Suspended Solids (TSS), (85% Removal Rate)
The TSS violation was for violation of our monthly 85% removal rate
requirement in our NPDES permit limit. Due to slow high monthly effluent TSS
levels, our facility did not meet the 85% TSS removal rate required by our
NPDES permit. Note: A change was made to the piping in the Oxidation Ditch to
help correct the WWTP high TSS levels. Since changing the piping in the
Oxidation Ditch, the WWTP has not had any further TSS violations.

Spills (For the fiscal year 2003-2004)
October 20, 2003 A spill occurred at an old abandoned pump station at the old Sludge Pump
Building. Plant staff suspects that gas must have built up in the abandoned sludge
lines and forced open the check valve causing sludge from the Digester to flow
back into the pump station. The valves were closed and this ended the spill. It
was estimated that 5000 gallons were spilled. It was estimated that gallons
reached surface waters. Straw was used to contain and absorb the sludge. It
Lincolnton ON of Water Treatment Plant
Violations (For the fiscal year 2003 2004)
No Reported Violations (For the fiscal year 2003-2004)
.Spills (For the fiscal year 2003-2004)
No Reported Spills (For the fiscal year 2003-2004)
M. Notification
A Public Notice will be listed in the Lincoln Times -News newspaper on August 30, 2004 and
September 1, 2004 advising all customers that this Performance Annual Report is available for public
review at the City of Lincolnton Public Works & Utilities office.
IV. Certification
I certify under penalty of law that this report is complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I
further certify that this report has been made available to the users or customers of the City of
Lincolnton water and sewer system, and that those users have been notified of its availability.
i6fnes S. Rhyne
Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
D. C. Thornburg III
Water Treatment Plant Superintendent
City of Lincolnton
R-25-0¢
Date
- F
Date

Michael F. Eas eN. Governor %
Wiliiam G. Ross Jr.. Secretary J
North Carolina Deaartment of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek. P. E. Director
Division of Water Quality
Coleen H. Sullins. Depun Director
Division of Water Qualm
March 5, 2004
Mr. Stephen H. Peeler, Public Works Director
City of Lincolnton
Post Office Box 617
Lincolnton, North Carolina 28093-0617
Subject: Compliance Evaluation Inspection
City of Lincolnton WTP
NPDES Permit No. NCO085588
Lincoln County, N.C.
Dear Mr. Peeler:
Enclosed is a copy of the Compliance Evaluation Inspection Report for the inspection
conducted at the subject facility on March 4, 2004, by Mr. Wes Bell of this Office. Please inform
the facility's Operator -in -Responsible Charge of our findings by forwarding a copy of the
enclosed report to him.
The report should be self-explanatory; however, should you have any questions
concerning this report, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bell or me at [phone].
Sincerely,
D. Rex Gleason, P.E.
Water Quality Regional Supervisor
Enclosure
cc: Lincoln County Health Department
tiorthCarolina �'��
,7Vlltura!!lJ NCDENR
N. C. Division of Water Quality, Mooresville Regional Office, 919 North Main Street, Mooresville NC 28115 [phone] Customer Service
1-877-623-6748

United States Environmental Protection Agency
Form Approved.
EPA Washington, D.C. 20460
OMB No. 2040-0057
Water Compfiance Inspection Report
Approval expires 8-31-98
Section A: National Data System Coding (i.e., PCS)
Transaction Code NPDES yr/mo/day Inspection Type Inspector Fac Type
1 IJ 2 IJ 31 NCC085588 1 11 121 C4/03/04 1 17 18I I 19) g j 20I
L_1 tL�JI LUJ Ll
Remarks
2111111111 11111111111111111111111111111111 111111166
Inspection Work Days Facility Self -Monitoring Evaluation Rating 61 QA ---- ---- Reserved--------------
67 1 _ .., 1 69 70 IJ 71 U 72 L' J 73 W 74 751 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 80
Section B: Facility Data
Name and Location of Facility Inspected (For Industrial Users discharging to POTW, also include
Entry Time/Date
Permit Effective Date
POTW name and NPDES permit Number)
3 AM C4iC3:'C4
00/11/01
Lincolnton n—.P
Exit Time/Date
Permit Expiration Date
1338 Reepsv4 lle Road
Lincolnto. NC 28093
10:40 AM 04/C3/C4
05/C7i3-
Name(s) of Onsite Representative(s)/Titles(s)/Phone and Fax Number(s)
Other Facility Data
Thornburg/CRC/704-736-8970/
Name, Address of Responsible Official/Title/Phone and Fax Number
Steven Peeler, PO Box 617 LincolnContactedton NC 28093//7C4-736-8980/ No
Section C: Areas Evaluated During Inspection (Check only those areas evaluated)
Permit Flow Measurement Operations & Maintenance Records/Reports
Self -Monitoring Program Sludge Handling Disposal Facility Site Review Effluent/Receiving Waters
Laboratory
Section D: Summary of Finding/Comments (Attach additional sheets of narrative and checklists as necessary)
(See attachment summary)
Name(s) and Signature(s)/of Inspectors) Agency/Office/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
Wesley N Bell '11 / M.RO WQ//704-663-1699/704-663-6040 3! /0�f
Signature of Management Q A Reviewer Agency/Offwe/Phone and Fax Numbers Date
EPA Form 3560-3 (Rev 9-94) Previous editions are obsolete.

Permit: NCO085588 Owner - Facility: City of Lincolnton - Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Date: 03/04/04 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Permir
Yes Na
NA
NE
(If the present permit expires in 6 months or less). Has the permittee submitted a new application?
❑ ❑
M
Cl
Is the facility as described in the permit?
0 ❑
❑
❑
Are there any special conditions for the permit?
❑ 0
❑
❑
Is access to the plant site restricted to the general public?
0 ❑
❑
Cl
Is the inspector granted access to all areas for inspection?
0 ❑
❑
❑
Comment:
No
NA
NE
Operations & Maintenance
Does the plant have general safety structures in place such as rails around or covers over tanks, pits, or wells?
Yes
No
❑
❑
Is the plant generally clean with acceptable housekeeping?
❑
❑
❑
Comment:The facility was property operated and well maintained.
Lacoons
Type of lagoons?
Yes No NA
Fc,c ) f c.
LNE
1 J v'
Number of lagoons in operation at time of visit?
1
A
Are lagoons operated in?
Is a re -circulation line present?
❑ ❑
0
❑
Is lagoon free of excessive floating materials?
M Cl
❑
❑
Are baffles between ponds or effluent baffles adjustable?
❑ ❑
0
❑
Are dike slopes clear of woody vegetation?
❑
❑
❑
Are weeds controlled around the edge of the lagoon?
Cl
Cl
❑
Are dikes free of seepage?
❑
❑
❑
Are dikes free of erosion?
❑
❑
❑
Are dikes free of burrowing animals?
❑
❑
❑
Are sludge levels appropriate?
❑
❑
❑
Has the sludge blanket in the lagoon (s) been measured periodically in multiple locations?
❑ ❑
❑
If excessive algae is present, has barley straw been used to help control the growth?
❑ ❑
0
❑
Is the lagoon surface free of weeds?
❑
❑
❑
Is the lagoon free of short circuiting?
❑
❑
❑
Comment:A chain driven assembly (with flights) is located within the settling lagoon to position the sludge into a trough
prior to removal to the sludge dewatering (centrifuge) unit..
Yes No
NA
NE
Laboratory
Are field parameters performed by certified personnel or laboratory?
❑
❑
❑
Are all other parameters(excluding field parameters) performed by a certified lab?
❑
❑
❑
Is the facility using a contract lab?
❑
❑
❑
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs?
❑
❑
❑
Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at 1.0 to 4.4 degrees Celsius)?
❑
❑
Cl
Incubator (Fecal Coliform) set to 44.5 degrees Celsius+/- 0.2 degrees?
❑ ❑
❑
Incubator (BOD) set to 20.0 degrees Celsius +/- 1.0 degrees?
❑ ❑
❑
Comment:The facility was issued certification #5060 to perform on -site field analyses.
Flaw Measurement - Effluent
Is flow meter used for reporting?
Yes No
❑ ❑
NA NE
M ❑
Is flow meter calibrated annually?
❑ ❑
0
❑
Page# 1

Permit: NCO085588 Owner - Facility: City of Lincolnton - Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Date: 03/04/04 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Flow Measurement - Effluent
Is flow meter operafing property?
Yes No
❑ ❑
NA NE
0 ❑
(If units are separated) Does the chart recorder match the flow meter?
❑ ❑
E ❑
Comment:The facility's flow measurement consists of multiplying the pump's run-time by the pump's flow rate.
Renard Keaoino
Are records kept and maintained as required by the permit?
Yes No
0 ❑
NA NE
❑ ❑
Is all required information readily available, complete and current?
❑
❑ ❑
Are all records maintained for 3 years (lab. reg. required 5 years)?
❑
❑ ❑
Are analytical results consistent with data reported on DMRs?
❑
❑ ❑
Are sampling and analysis data adequate and include:
❑
❑ ❑
Dates, times and location of sampling
Name of individual performing the sampling
Results of analysis and calibration
Dates of analysis
Name of person performing analyses
Transported COCs
Plant records are adequate, available and include
❑ ❑
❑
O&M Manual
❑
As built Engineering drawings
❑
Schedules and dates of equipment maintenance and repairs
❑
Are DMRs complete: do they include all permit parameters?
❑
❑ ❑
Has the facility submitted its annual compliance report to users?
❑ ❑
0 ❑
(If the facility is = or > 5 MGD permitted flow) Do they operate 24l7 with a certified operator on each shift?
❑ ❑
0 ❑
Is the ORC visitation log available and current?
❑
❑ ❑
Is the ORC certified at grade equal to or higher than the facility classification?
❑
❑ ❑
Is the backup operator certified at one grade less or greater than the facility classification?
❑
❑ ❑
Is a copy of the current NPDES permit available on site?
❑
❑ Cl
Is the facility description verified as contained in the NPDES permit?
❑
❑ ❑
Does the facility analyze process control parameters, for example: MLSS, MCRT, Settleable Solids. DO, Sludge
❑ ❑
❑
Judge. pH, and others that are applicable?
Facility has copy of previous year's Annual Report on file for review?
❑ ❑
❑
Comment:DMRs from December 2002 through November 2003 were reviewed. No limit violations were reported.
The ORC must insure that all samples are only collected and analyzed during discharge events and the corresponding
values are reported down to the method/meters detection limit.
Yes No
NA NE
Effluent Samolino
Is composite sampling flow proportional?
❑ ❑
0 ❑
Is sample collected below all treatment units?
❑
❑ ❑
Is proper volume collected?
❑
❑ ❑
Is the tubing clean?
❑ ❑
0 ❑
Is proper temperature set for sample storage (kept at 1.0 to 4.4 degrees Celsius)?
❑ ❑
0 ❑
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type representative)?
❑
❑ ❑
Comment:
Upstream / Downstream Sam Ip no
Yes No
NA NE
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Permit: NC0085588 Owner - Facility: City of Lincolnton - Lincolnton WTP
Inspection Date: 03/04/04 Inspection Type: Compliance Evaluation
Upstream i Downstream Sampling
Is the facility sampling performed as required by the permit (frequency, sampling type, and sampling location)?
yys No
❑
NA
❑
NE
❑
Comment:
Yes No
NA
NE
Solids Handlinfl Fouipment
Is the equipment operational?
0 ❑
❑
❑
Is the chemical feed equipment operational?
❑ ❑
❑
0
Is storage adequate?
❑ ❑
0
❑
Is the site free of high level of solids in filtrate from filter presses or vacuum filters?
❑ ❑
❑
Is the site free of sludge buildup on belts and/or rollers of filter press?
❑ ❑
❑
E
Is the site free of excessive moisture in belt filter press sludge cake?
❑ ❑
❑
Comment:The centrifuge was operational: however, the unit was not dewatering sludge at the time of the inspection.
Yes No
NA
NE
Effluent Pine
Is right of way to the outfall property maintained?
M ❑
❑
❑
Are receiving water free of solids and floatable wastewater materials?
0 ❑
❑
❑
Are the receiving waters free of solids / debris?
0 ❑
❑
❑
Are the receiving waters free of foam other than a trace?
M ❑
❑
❑
Are the receiving waters free of sludge worms?
❑ ❑
0
❑
If effluent (diffuser pipes are required) are they operating property?
❑ ❑
M
❑
Comment:The effluent was clear with no floatable solids or foam.
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