The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutNC0074900_Permit Issuance_20160930Water Resources ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY September 30, 2016 Mr. Michael A. Melton, Regional Manager of Compliance Aqua North Carolina, Inc. 4163 Sinclair Street Denver, NC 28037 Subject: Issuance of NPDES Permit NCO074900 Aqua North Carolina, Inc. — Highway 150 W WTP Iredell County Dear Mr. Melton: PAT MCCRORY Co emo DONALD R. VAN DER VAART Secretary S. JAY ZImAffiRMAN D"Ve Division personnel have reviewed and approved your application for renewal of the subject permit. Accordingly, we are forwarding the attached NPDES discharge permit. This permit 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 (or as subsequently amended). This final permit contains the following changes to its terms from those found in the draft permit sent to you on April 20, 2016: • On the limits and monitoring requirements pages of the permit, the word "non -industrial" has been added as a parenthetical elaboration of the type of wastewater that may be treated at the facility, because the WWTP treats wastewater from commercial sources in addition to private residences. • Section A. (3.) [Special Condition — Flow Expansion Request] in the draft permit has been removed from the final version of the permit, and the remaining conditions have been renumbered. You are also reminded of the new condition requiring electronic reporting of discharge monitoring report (DMR) data using the Division's eDMR internet application. This new requirement will become effective on December 21, 2016. If any parts, measurement frequencies or sampling requirements contained in this permit are unacceptable to you, you have the right to an adjudicatory hearing upon written request within thirty (30) days following receipt of this letter. This request must be in the form of a written petition, conforming to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes, and filed with the Office of Administrative Hearings (6714 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-6714). Unless such demand is made, this decision shall be final and binding. State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources 1617 Mail Service Center I Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 919-707-9000 Mr. Michael A. Melton NC0074900 Permit Renewal 2016 p. 2 Please note that this permit is not transferable except after notice to the Division. The Division may require modification or revocation and reissuance of the permit. This permit does not affect the legal requirements to obtain other permits which may be required by the Division of Water Resources or any other Federal, State, or Local governmental permits that may be required. If you have any questions concerning this permit, please contact Bob Sledge at telephone number (919) 807-6398, or via e-mail at bob.sledge@ncdenr.gov. Sely, S. Jay Zimmerman, P.G., Director Division of Water Resources cc: Central Files Mooresville Regional Office/Water Quality NPDES File Permit NCO074900 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY DIVISION OF WATER RESOURCES PERMIT TO DISCHARGE WASTEWATER UNDER THE NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM In compliance with the provisions 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, Aqua North Carolina, Inc. is hereby authorized to discharge wastewater from a facility located at the Highway 150 WWTP 130 Quiet Cove Road Mooresville Iredell County to receiving waters designated as Lake Norman (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 November 1, 2016. This permit and authorization to discharge shall expire at midnight on March 31, 2020. Signed this day September 30, 2016. S. JAeZimmerman. Director Division of Water Resources By the Authority of the Environmental Management Commission Page 1 of 9 Permit NC0074900 SUPPLEMENT TO PERMIT COVER SHEET All previous NPDES Permits issued to this facility, whether for operation or discharge are hereby revoked, and as of this 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. Aqua North Carolina, Inc. is hereby authorized to: 1. Continue operation of an existing 0.10 MGD wastewater treatment system, located at the Highway 150 Wastewater Treatment Plant, 130 Quiet Cove Road, in Mooresville, in Iredell County. The system referenced herein consists of the following treatment units: • Equalization Tank; • Dual 50,000 gpd activated sludge package type WWTP with diffused air and secondary clarification; • Aerated sludge holding tank; • Dual cell tertiary treatment (Sand filters); • Chlorination; • Dechlorination; and • Diffused Post Aeration. After receiving an Authorization to Construct from the Division of Water Resources, construct and operate facilities giving the system an ultimate treatment capacity of 0.225 MGD; and, 2. Discharge treated wastewater from said treatment works at the location specified on the attached map through outfall 001 into the Catawba River (Lake Norman), a class WS-1V B CA water in the Catawba River Basin. Page 2 of 9 Permit NCO074900 PART I A. (1.) EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS [ 15A NCAC 02B .0400 et seq., 02B .0500 et seq.] During the period beginning on the effective date of this permit and lasting until either 1) receipt of an Authorization to Operate or Engineer's Certificate upon completion of an expansion to 0.225 MGD; or 2) permit expiration, the Permittee is authorized to discharge treated domestic (non -industrial) wastewater from Outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored) by the Permittee as specified below: . i !.h .. ..+.. ... ra. ... }.- � . ......: .... fir.: ...... -rye_ rl" _ '=j%. �' - .. '•.1 ,Y-.�• ..I4fR� x_r .+.s J ' -: r-cas.�,-rzs-r,.�{` �+,",_�•M_ �p -... +=rye 8 "17GtI1U-�"; ..� µMxirnum ,-��... `. iten x- F" ecadbfi:. Flow 50050 0.10 MGD Continuous Recording Influent or Effluent BOD, 5-Day, 20°C C0310 15.0 mg/L 22.5 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent Total Suspended Solids C0530 30.0 mg/L 45.0 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent NHs as N C0610 4.0 mg/L 20.0 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent Dissolved Oxygen 00300 Daily Average z 5.0 mg/L Weekly Grab Effluent pH 00400 z 6.0 & s 9.0 standard units Weekly Grab Effluent Fecal Coliform (geometric mean) 31616 (Summer)2 200/100 ml 400/100 ml 3/Week Grab Effluent Fecal C (geometric mean) 2liform 31616 Winter 200/100 ml 400/100 ml Weekly Grab Effluent Total Residual Chlorine3 50060 28 µg/L 2/Week Grab Effluent Oil and Grease C0556 30.0 mg/L 60.0 mg/L Weekly Grab Effluent Temperature 00010 Monitor & Report 3/Week Grab Effluent Total Nitrogen (NO2 + NO3+ TKN) C0600 Monitor & Report Quarterly Composite Effluent Total Phosphorus C0665 Monitor & Report Quarterly Composite Effluent Footnotes: 1. Starting on December 21, 2016, begin submitting Discharge Monitoring Reports electronically using NC DVWR's eDMR application system. See Condition A. (4.). 2. Summer is defined as the period from April 1 through October 31, while winter is defined as November 1 through March 31. 3. The Division shall consider all effluent TRC values reported below 50 µg/L to be in compliance with the permit. However, the Permittee shall continue to record and submit all values reported by a North Carolina certified laboratory (including field certified), even if these values fall below 50 µg/L. There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts. There shall be no discharge of treated industrial wastewater [as*defined in 15A NCAC 2B .0202(27)) without obtaining prior approval from the Division of Water Resources. Page 3 of 9 Permit NCO074900 A. (2.) EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS AND MONITORING REQUIREMENTS [ 15A NCAC 02B .0400 et seq., 02B .0500 et seq.] Beginning upon receipt of an Authorization to Operate or the Engineer's Certification upon completion of an expansion to 0.225 MGD and lasting until permit expiration, the Permittee is authorized to discharge treated domestic (non -industrial) wastewater from outfall 001. Such discharges shall be limited and monitored] by the Permittee as specified below: � LU _i '� CI ARAC'TER ECS L M�I'S Jry 01000 0 • z .,ry �, ; Y t .Sy � r :.'� t_ 1. '' n-y�rZ �l-e^ �� rY I{'Fz ry f.'1 ' ��.4 j1� • : c{P L '-ems pry* Flow 50050 0.225 MGD Continuous Recording Influent or Effluent BOD, 5-Day, 200C C0310 15.0 mg/L 22.5 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent Total Suspended Solids C0530 30.0 mg/L 45.0 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent NH3 as N (Summer)2 C0610 2.0 mg/L 10.0 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent NH3 as N (Winter)2 C0610 4.0 mg/L 20.0 mg/L Weekly Composite Effluent Dissolved Oxygen 00300 Daily Average z 5.0 mg/L Weekly Grab Effluent pH 00400 z 6.0 & s 9.0 standard units Weekly Grab Effluent Fecal Coliform (geometric mean) 31616 Summer 2 200/100 ml 400/100 ml 3/Week Grab Effluent Fecal C 2liform (geometric mean) 31616 (Winter)2 200/100 ml 400/100 ml Weekly Grab Effluent Residual Chlodne3 50060 28 µg/L 2/Week Grab Effluent Oil and Grease 00556 30.0 mg/L 60.0 mg/L Weekly Grab Effluent Temperature 00010 Monitor & Report 31Week Grab Effluent Total Nitrogen (NO2 + NO3 + TKN) C0600 Monitor & Report Quarterly Composite Effluent Total Phosphorus C0665 Monitor & Report Quarterly Composite Effluent Footnotes: 1. Starting on December 21, 2016, begin submitting Discharge Monitoring Reports electronically using NC DWR's eDMR application system. See Condition A. (4.). 2. Summer is defined as the period from April 1 through October 31, while winter is defined as November 1 through March 31. 3. The Division shall consider all effluent TRC values reported below 50 µg/L to be in compliance with the permit. However, the Permittee shall continue to record and submit all values reported by a North Carolina certified laboratory (including field certified), even if these values fall below 50 µg/L. There shall be no discharge of floating solids or visible foam in other than trace amounts. There shall be no discharge of treated industrial wastewater [as defined in 15A NCAC 2B .0202(27)] without obtaining prior approval from the Division of Water Resources. Page 4 of 9 Permit NCO074900 A. (3.) SPECIAL CONDITION — Spill Notification [G.S. 143-215.1 C] (a) Contacting Public Health Directors The facility must notify the Iredell, Lincoln, Catawba, and Mecklenburg County Public Health Directors within 12 hours of first knowledge by the owner/operator of any discharge of untreated wastewater to waters of the State or a discharge from the wastewater treatment plant that has not received adequate disinfection due to a malfunctioning treatment unit. The County Public Health Directors can be contacted using the following information: Current County Health Director Information as of April 2016 Catawba County Health Director 3070 11 1hAve. Dr. S.E. Hickory, NC 28602 828-695-5800 Lincoln County Health Director 151 Sigmon Rd. Lincolnton, NC 28092 704-735-3001 (b) Public Notification Iredell County Health Director 318 Turnersburg Highway Statesville, NC 28625 704-878-5300 Mecklenburg County Health Director 249 Billingsley Road Charlotte, NC 28211 704-336-4700 The facility must notify the public of untreated wastewater spills. Wastewater facility owners or operators must issue a press release after a discharge to surface waters of 1,000 gallons within 48 hours of first knowledge of the spill by the owner/operator. The press release must be issued to "all electronic and print news media outlets that provide general coverage in the counties (Iredell, Lincoln, Catawba, and Mecklenburg) where the discharge occurred." A copy of the press release must be maintained for one year by the owner/operator. This press release is required in addition to the permit requirement of contacting the North Carolina Division of Water Resources (DWR). If a discharge of 15,000 gallons or more reaches surface water, a public notice is required in addition to the press release. The public notice must be placed in a newspaper having general circulation in the County in which the discharge occurred and the county immediately downstream. At a minimum the notice should be published in the newspaper of general circulation in Iredell, Lincoln, Catawba, and Mecklenburg Counties. If a discharge of 1,000,000 gallons of wastewater or more reaches surface waters, the DWR regional office must be contacted to determine in what additional counties, if any, a public notice must be published. A copy of these public notices and proof of publication must be sent to the DWR within 30 days of publication. The copy should be sent to the following address: PERCS Unit Division of Water Resources 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699 The minimum content of the notice is the location of the discharge, estimated volume, water body affected and steps taken to prevent future discharges. Page 5 of 9 Permit NCO074900 A. (4.) ELECTRONIC REPORTING OF DISCHARGE MONITORING REPORTS [G.S. 143-215.1(b)] Federal regulations require electronic submittal of all discharge monitoring reports (DMRs) and program reports and specify that, if a state does not establish a system to receive such submittals, then permittees must submit monitoring data and reports electronically to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The final NPDES Electronic Reporting Rule was adopted and became effective on December 21, 2015. NOTE: This special condition supplements or supersedes the following sections within Part II of this permit (Standard Conditions for APDES Permits): • Section B. (11.) • Section D. (2.) • Section D. (6.) • Section E. (5.) Signatory Requirements Reporting Records Retention Monitoring Reports 1. Reporting [Supersedes Section D. (2.) and Section E. (5.) (a)1 Effective December 21, 2016, the permittee shall begin reporting discharge monitoring data electronically using the NC DWR's Electronic Discharge Monitoring Report (eDMR) internet application. Monitoring results obtained during the previous month(s) shall be summarized for each month and submitted electronically using eDMR. The eDMR system allows permitted facilities to enter monitoring data and submit DMRs electronically using the internet. Until such time that the state's eDMR application is compliant with EPA's Cross -Media Electronic Reporting Regulation (CROMERR), permittees will be required to submit all discharge monitoring data to the state electronically using eDMR and will be required to complete the eDMR submission by printing, signing, and submitting one signed original and a copy of the computer printed eDMR to the following address: NC DENR / Division of Water Resources / Water Quality Permitting Section ATTENTION: Central Files 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 If a permittee is unable to use the eDMR system due to a demonstrated hardship or due to the facility being physically located in an area where less than 10 percent of the households have broadband access, then a temporary waiver from the NPDES electronic reporting requirements may be granted and discharge monitoring data may be submitted on paper DMR forms (MR 1, 1. 1, 2, 3) or alternative forms approved by the Director. Duplicate signed copies shall be submitted to the mailing address above. See "How to Request a Waiver from Electronic Reporting" section below. Regardless of the submission method, the first DMR is due on the last day of the month following the issuance of the permit or in the case of a new facility, on the last day of the month following the commencement of discharge. Starting on December 21, 2020, the permittee must electronically report the following compliance monitoring data and reports, when applicable: • Sewer Overflow/Bypass Event Reports; • Pretreatment Program Annual Reports; and • Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 316(b) Annual Reports. Page 6 of 9 Permit NCO074900 A. (4.) ELECTRONIC REPORTING OF DISCHARGE MONITORING REPORTS, continued The permittee may seek an electronic reporting waiver from the Division (see "How to Request a Waiver from Electronic Reporting" section below). Information on eDMR and application for a temporary waiver from the NPDES electronic reporting requirements is found on the following web page: http://Dortal.ncdenr.ore/web/wa/admin/bop/iDu/edmr Regardless of the submission method, the first DMR is due on the last day of the month following the issuance of the permit or in the case of a new facility, on the last day of the month following the commencement of discharge. 2. Electronic Submissions In accordance with 40 CFR 122.41(1)(9), the permittee must identify the initial recipient at the time of each electronic submission. The permittee should use the EPA's website resources to identify the initial recipient for the electronic submission. Initial recipient of electronic NPDES information from NPDES-regulated facilities means the entity (EPA or the state authorized by EPA to implement the NPDES program) that is the designated entity for receiving electronic NPDES data [see 40 CFR 127.2(b)]. EPA plans to establish a website that will also link to the appropriate electronic reporting tool for each type of electronic submission and for each state. Instructions on how to access and use the appropriate electronic reporting tool will be available as well. Information on EPA's NPDES Electronic Reporting Rule is found at: http://www2.gpa. ovg /cg=liance/final-national-pollutant-discharge-elimination-system-npdes- electronic-reporting-rule. Electronic submissions must start by the dates listed in the "Reporting Requirements" section above. 3. How to Request a Waiver from Electronic Reuortint The permittee may seek a temporary electronic reporting waiver from the Division. To obtain an electronic reporting waiver, a permittee must first submit an electronic reporting waiver request to the Division. Requests for temporary electronic reporting waivers must be submitted in writing to the Division for written approval at least sixty (60) days prior to the date the facility would be required under this permit to begin submitting monitoring data and reports. The duration of a temporary waiver shall not exceed 5 years and shall thereupon expire. At such time, monitoring data and reports shall be submitted electronically to the Division unless the permittee re -applies for and is granted a new temporary electronic reporting waiver by the Division. Approved electronic reporting waivers are not transferrable. Only permittees with an approved reporting waiver request may submit monitoring data and reports on paper to the Division for the period that the approved reporting waiver request is effective. Information on eDMR and the application for a temporary electronic reporting waiver are found on the following web page: http://deg.nc.gov/about/divisions/Water-resources/edmr Page 7 of 9 Permit NCO074900 A. (4.) ELECTRONIC REPORTING OF DISCHARGE MONITORING REPORTS, continued 4. Signatory Requirements [Supplements Section B. (11.) (b) and supersedes Section B. (11.) (d)1 All eDMRs submitted to the permit issuing authority shall be signed by a person described in Part II, Section B. (11.)(a) or by a duly authorized representative of that person as described in Part II, Section B. (11.)(b). A person, and not a position, must be delegated signatory authority for eDMR reporting purposes. For eDMR submissions, the person signing and submitting the DMR must obtain an eDMR user account and login credentials to access the eDMR system. For more information on North Carolina's eDMR system, registering for eDMR and obtaining an eDMR user account, please visit the following web page: http://portal.ncdenr.or web/wq/admin/bog/ipu/edmr Certification. Any person submitting an electronic DMR using the state's eDMR system shall make the following certification [40 CFR 122.22]. NO OTHER STATEMENTS OF CERTIFICATION WILL BE ACCEPTED: 7 certify, under penalty of law, that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for knowing violations. " 5. Records Retention [Supplements Section D. (6.)1 The permittee shall retain records of all Discharge Monitoring Reports, including eDMR submissions. These records or copies shall be maintained for a period of at least 3 years from the date of the report. This period may be extended by request of the Director at any time [40 CFR 122.41 ]. Page 8 of 9 FACT SHEET FOR EXPEDITED PERMIT RENEWALS This form must be completed by Permit Writers for all expedited permits which do not require full Fact Sheets. Expedited permits are generally simple 100% domestics (e.g., schools, mobile home parks, etc) that can be administratively renewed with minor changes, but can include facilities with more complex issues (Special Conditions, 303(d) listed water, toxicity testing, instream monitoring, compliance concerns). Basic Information for Expedited Permit Renewals Permit Writer/Date Bob Sledge 8/19/2016 Permit Number NCO074900 Facility Name Aqua NC — Highway 150 WWTP Basin Name/Sub-basin number Catawba 03-08-32 Receiving Stream Catawba River Lake Norman Stream Classification in Permit WS-IV, B, CA Does permit need Daily Max NH3 limits? No; already included Does permit need TRC limits/language? Already Included Does permit have toxicity testing? No Does permit have Special Conditions? Added eDMR Condition Does permit have instream monitoring? No Is the stream impaired on 303 d list)? No Any obvious compliance concerns? No Limit Violations during last permit cycle Any permit mods since last ermit? No Current expiration date March 31, 2015 New expiration date March 31, 2020 Comments received on Draft Permit? Citizen comments were received prior to public notice. Aqua NC commented in response to the public notice. The Highway 150 WWTP is a 0.1 MGD package plant located west of Mooresville, with discharge of treated effluent to Lake Norman. It serves residences and commercial businesses (no industry) in the Highway 150 corridor on a peninsula created by the lake that is outside of the City of Mooresville's current wastewater service area. From the time it was first planned, the WWTP has been a lightning rod for criticism due to it being a new discharge to the lake, the location of the discharge, and its potential impacts to the lake, with resultant impacts on property values. Additional criticism was given to the facility during its early history due to the compliance record of a former owner/operator, Mid -South Utilities, Inc. During the renewal of the permit in 2000, considerable public comment was received in response to the draft being placed at public notice. As a result, a public hearing was held regarding the renewal of the permit. In response to comments received at the hearing, terms within the permit were modified, including an increase in the monitoring of fecal coliform in the effluent to daily (7 days/week) during the summer months, and the addition of a condition requiring the facility to notify health departments for those counties bordering Lake Norman in the event of a release of untreated or undertreated wastewater. Each of these changes were made in consideration of the recreational use of the lake, especially during the summer. NC0074900 2016 Fact Sheet After its issuance, the permit was contested by local citizens and an advocacy group for the Catawba River. The petitioners challenged the process of the permit renewal and means by which dilution and dispersion of the discharge were determined. The administrative law judge that heard the case recommended the permit be rescinded (without prejudice as to the right of the permit holder to reapply for a NPDES permit). During the process of the permit being adjudicated in the court, the facility was sold by Mid -South to a company known as Hydraulics, Ltd., a subsidiary of Philadelphia Suburban Water Company, a large, private utility company. The permit was reissued to Hydraulics, Ltd. in December 2000. The ALJ recommended the transfer of the permit be made null and void. In a May 2003 ruling, the Environmental Management Commission, making the final agency decision in the matter, was in substantial agreement with the ALJ's reasoning and recommendation. It rescinded the 2000 permit, but stayed the rescission until a new permit could be issued. The permittee was directed to provide such materials to the Division that would allow for a complete review of matters associated with the issuance of the permit. The transfer of responsibility for the permit was allowed. On December 1, 2003, Hydraulics, Ltd. submitted a NPDES permit application for the Highway 150 WWTP, along with an engineering alternatives analysis and a dilution study for the discharge. In the meantime, the concern regarding the quality of the discharge from the Highway 150 WWTP was extended to all package plant WWTPs discharging into Lake Norman. A policy was developed by the NPDES Permitting Unit that placed the daily fecal coliform monitoring and the spill notification condition in all permits for package plant WWTP discharging into Lake Norman. Provision was made in the permits for monitoring frequency reduction based upon compliant performance for a number of summer seasons. Eventually, Mid -South Utilities, Inc. sold all of its WWTPs to Heater Utilities, Inc., a regional private utility company with a solid reputation. Heater Utilities contested its 2005 Lake Norman package plant permits. They were eventually modified pursuant to a settlement reached with the Division that called allowed for a lower monitoring frequency in exchange for increased operational oversight of the WWTPs. As more time passed, Philadelphia Suburban expanded its holdings and changed its name to Aqua America. It purchased the WWTPs owned by Heater Utilities and named its North Carolina subsidiary Aqua North Carolina, Inc. During this time, there was also considerable discussion with the Town of Mooresville regarding the potential for it to expand its service area and take on that served by the Highway 150 WWTP. In the end, the option of Mooresville taking over wastewater treatment was determined to not be viable, at least in the foreseeable future. The Highway 150 WWTP accepted the flow from the nearby and historically problematic Pier 16 WWTP (NC0074535), allowing that discharge to be eliminated. After many delays, efforts turned toward reissuance of the Highway 150 permit. The permit was reissued to Aqua North Carolina in 2011. Its reissuance was coordinated by the Complex Permitting Unit, which did a very thorough job in addressing all the deficiencies and emphases pointed out by the ALJ and the EMC. Its review is summarized in the September 2011 Fact Sheet that can be found in the permit file. The permit reduced the summer monitoring frequency for fecal coliform from daily to 3/week, and after a careful examination of documented potential for future flow, capped the permit's provision for expansion at 0.225 MGD. K NCO074900 2016 Fact Sheet Since the WWTP has been owned and operated by Aqua NC and its predecessors, its performance has been consistently compliant with permit conditions. No effluent limit violations have been reported by the facility since January 2004. DWR inspection reports depict the same evaluation of WWTP performance. Such performance caused the summer monitoring frequency for fecal coliform to be reduced from daily to 3/week in the 2011 permit. As the current permit renewal was being contemplated and drafted, comments were provided by two citizens who live near Lake Norman and by the Catawba Riverkeeper. Each referenced vague threats to water quality in Lake Norman with associated impacts to drinking water and recreation caused by the discharge and its potential increase as provided for in the permit. Some of the stated concerns were with regard to the factors associated with instream flow that were considered in establishment of permit limits. These matters appear to have been settled during reviews conducted for previous permit cycles. The facility discharges through a diffuser located near the bottom of the lake, about 40 feet below the surface. Studies conducted at the site of the discharge showed the effluent received adequate dilution in the receiving water. When the permit was placed at public notice in April 2016, its content was much the same as that in the previous permit, with the addition of a condition requiring the facility to begin using eDMR by December 21, 2016. Aqua NC provided comments on the draft, requesting the fecal coliform monitoring during the summer be reduced from 3/week to weekly based upon its compliance history. Such a change would bring monitoring for this parameter in line with the frequencies found in the permits for similar dischargers to Lake Norman. During the same time, C&EPU staff noted a discrepancy within the text of the permit. Condition A. (3.) in the existing permit and the draft described circumstances associated with the review of request for flow expansion beyond 0.225 MGD. During the development of the 2011 permit there was a request for flow expansion up to 0.3 MGD. As noted above, the Complex Unit's review at the time only found justification for flow expansion up to 0.225 MGD based upon information provided regarding potential flow that may be received by the system. The condition was added in reference to the request for flow beyond 0.225 MGD and its being limited at that volume, but provided a roadmap for consideration of a request for higher flow. However, it was noted that as the permit is limited in its flow provision to a current maximum of 0.225 MGD, the permit itself will first have to be modified to allow additional flow before any discussion of the hows or whys of treating the flow may commence. In the end, all such discussions will be governed by the statutes and rules associated with permit issuance and modification, not a term of the permit. It was recommended that the condition be removed from the permit along with reference to it on the supplement to cover page. Aqua NC was made aware of this situation and is agreeable to the removal of the condition. It is worth noting as part of this discussion that the WWTP is currently operating with a long- term average flow of 0.032 MGD, roughly a third of its present capacity. While there is still the possibility that increased flow could come to the WWTP, at the present time, it is not anticipated. As a result, these is little likelihood that Aqua NC will avail itself of the existing flow expansion provision, much less request that even more flow be considered. 3 NCO074900 2016 Fact Sheet Evaluation of fecal coliform monitoring reduction Fecal coliform values since 1 / 1 /2005 were examined. Since that date (2140 reported values), only ten (10) were reported as discreet values; the rest were reported as "less than" (<1). The highest daily value reported during the period of review was 260 colonies. The last time a discreet value was reported was in March 2014. Such performance would merit the frequency reduction. Furthermore, to do so would put the Highway 150 WWTP's monitoring at the same level as the other Aqua NC WWTPs discharging into Lake Norman, and all other package plants discharging into the Lake. It would also bring the monitoring in line with the frequency called for in the 2B .0500 rules. However, because the draft permit was sent to public notice with the monitoring frequency at 3/week during the summer months, any reduction at this point would be seen as making the permit less restrictive and would require it being placed at public notice again. Because of the expense of a second public notice and the extra time it would add to getting an already overdue permit renewed, the request cannot be granted at this time. A note will be placed in the permit file recommending the monitoring reduction be granted at the time of the next renewal if performance for the parameter continues as it has in the past. Aqua NC also requested a change in the wording used in the permit, asking that "Domestic wastewater" be replaced with "non -industrial wastewater." The permit is clear in stating no industrial flow is allowed to be treated at the WWTP. The facility can and does treat wastewater from some commercial establishments (restaurants, etc.). The permittee is hoping the change in wording will lessen confusion in the minds of those observing the operation, keeping them from thinking "domestic" equated to sewage from residential users only. This change has been made in the permit. 4 Sledge, Bob From: Melton, Michael A. <MAMelton@aquaamerica.com> Sent: Monday, September 26, 2016 8:56 AM To: Sledge, Bob Cc: Ison, Laurie T.; Rimmer, Duane D. Subject: RE: NC0074900 Highway 150 WWTP Thank you Bob. We appreciate you willingness to at least consider our request. We look forward to seeing the permit, hopefully this week. Take care. From: Sledge, Bob [mailto:bob.sledge@ncdenr.gov] Sent: Monday, September 26, 2016 8:47 AM To: Melton, Michael A. Subject: NC0074900 Highway 150 WWTP Hi Michael, Once again I apologize for the time it's taken to get substantive movement on the issuance of the permit renewal. I have news that I want to pass along on the subject. I presented your comments regarding the draft permit to my superior for a decision regarding how the final version of the permit will appear. Although it was agreed that the facility's performance has been very good in terms of effluent quality, including that for fecal coliform, your request for reduction of the summer monitoring frequency for fecal coliform has been denied. The decision has more to do with the timing of the consideration of the request than evaluation of WWTP performance. Because a reduction in monitoring frequency would have the permit to be less restrictive than what was presented during the public notice period, and would be a major modification of its terms, to make such a modification would require the permit to be placed again at public notice. This would lead to additional expense to the Division and would cause an already overdue permit renewal to be delayed even further. As a result, the permit will be reissued much like it was when it was placed at public notice. The other two potential changes we spoke about will be included in the final permit —the removal of condition A. (3.)[flow expansion request], and the inclusion of the words "non -industrial" as a parenthetical elaboration of the type of wastewater treated by the plant. I'm sure it is disappointing news for you to hear the monitoring reduction was not approved, and I get no joy out of being the one to tell you of the development. However, I will place a note in the file for the next permit writer advising him or her be sure to examine the matter, with a recommendation that the change should be made if WWTP performance for the parameter has remained at the same level. With the delays associated with the current renewal, the 3/week monitoring would continue for only three more summer seasons. We'll try to get a final version signed and issued this week. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please call or reply if you have any questions. OR Bob Sledge Environmental Specialist Division of Water Resources — NPDES Compliance & Expedited Permitting Unit North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality 919-807-6398 bob.sledgena ncdenr.gov Sledge, Bob From: Melton, Michael A. <MAMelton@aquaamerica.com> Sent: Wednesday, July 06, 2016 11:50 AM To: Sledge, Bob; Hennessy, John Cc: Ison, Laurie T.; Rimmer, Duane D. Subject: RE: Country Woods NC0065684 UV Disinfection Bob, thanks again for our discussion this morning. In keeping with the other Lake Norman Permits and inclusion of the fact that the Hwy 150 WWTP has had superior compliance, we would request that the frequency of Fecal Monitoring be likewise (1 grab/week) but only up to 0.100 MGD, then increase to 3/week between 0.100 MGD up to 0.225 MGD. Also, the wording in the flow sheet where it describes that the "Permittee is authorized to discharged treated domestic wastewater" is somewhat misleading since in the case of Hwy 150, we have some commercial accounts. As an alternative, could the word "non -industrial wastewater' be used? Finally, we are in agreement that Special Condition A.3. be removed. Please let us know if you need anything else. Thank you again AQUA Michael A. Melton Regional Manager of Compliance Aqua North Carolina, Inc 4163 Sinclair Street Denver, NC 28037 0: 704.489.9404, ext 57238 M:704.507.3315 000 From: Sledge, Bob [mailto:bob.sledge@ncdenr.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 05, 2016 2:18 PM To: Melton, Michael A.; Hennessy, John Subject: RE: Country Woods NC0065684 UV Disinfection Hi Michael, I apologize again for the delays in getting this permit through the processes and having it issued The permit was placed at public notice. As I was preparing the permit for signature, I looked again at the supplement to the permit's cover page (page 2) and condition A. (3.) of the permit. As it was drafted and placed at notice, the supplement page referenced provision for expansion to an ultimate treatment capacity of 0.225 MGD after receiving an Authorization to Construct permit, but then said for the reader to see condition A. (3.). As it was written, condition A. (3.) described actions the permittee would have to take in any application for an AtoC resulting in expansion of flow beyond 0.225 MGD. There was obviously a disconnect between the two parts of the permit with regard to what was being referenced with regard to the capacity (or potential capacity) of the WWTP. At this point in time, the permit has allowance only for expansion to 0.225 MGD. Looking at the file, it was found that the permittee had only provided justification for flow up to that volume. Any consideration of additional, increased flow to be discharged will have to be evaluated through the processes as established by rules governing permit review and issuance, and not by the condition in the permit. As the existing condition A. (3.) is misleading and somewhat erroneous (one would have to have the NPDES permit modified before requesting an AtoC permit) we propose to remove that condition from the final permit and its being referenced on the supplement page. I believe this change is the right thing to do, it really doesn't change Aqua's standing with regard to this or future permits, and it removes a potential point of contention for critics of the permit to point at. I've attached a copy of the draft we sent out, a copy of a revised version with noted changes, and a copy of our guidance regarding the Engineering Alternative Analysis that would have to be completed anyway if the division was to consider a request for flow expansion. I'm only here in the office for a short while longer, until 2:30. 1 know you typically arrive in your office early, as do I. I'm usually in by 5:30. If you'd like to talk any time after that, I should be available. I plan to be in the office each day for the rest of the week. Thank you for your continuing patience. :. 71 E-mail correspondence to and from this address may be subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties. From: Melton, Michael A. [mailto:MAMelton@aguaamerica.com] Sent: Tuesday, July 05, 2016 12:09 PM To: Hennessy, John <iohn.hennessvPncdenr.aov> Cc: Sledge, Bob <bob.sledee0ncdenr.gov> Subject: RE: Country Woods N00065684 UV Disinfection Great. thank you for the response. I have some time this afternoon if Bob will be available to talk. From: Hennessy, John [mailto:iohn.hennessy( ncdenr.gov] Sent: Tuesday, July 05, 2016 12:01 PM To: Melton, Michael A. Cc: Sledge, Bob Subject: RE: Country Woods NCO065684 UV Disinfection Michael, I spoke with Bob this morning. The permit has been to public notice. We are considering removing one of the conditions form the permit, but Bob felt the need to discuss it with you first. We understand that you are a very busy person. We are willing to call you. But, we wonder if it might not be easier for you to give Bob a call at your convenience. His number is 919-807-6398. Please let me know if you have any additional questions. Thanks. John John Hennessy Supervisor, Compliance and Expedited Permitting Unit Division of Water Resources Department of Environmental Quality 919-807-6377 office iohn. hennessv(o)ncdenr.gov 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27669-1617 1C. "Nothing Compares - Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties. From: Melton, Michael A. fmailto:MAMelton@aguaamerica.com] Sent: Friday, July 01, 2016 9:53 AM To: Hennessy, John fiohn.hennessv@ncdenr.aov> Cc: Icon, Laurie T. <LTlson@aquaamerica.com> Subject: RE: Country Woods NC0065684 UV Disinfection Okay, thank you John. From: Hennessy, John fmailto:john.hennessy(c ncdenr.gov] Sent: Friday, July 01, 2016 9:52 AM To: Melton, Michael A. Subject: RE: Country Woods NC0065684 UV Disinfection Not sure where that is. If I recall, we have gone to public notice with it. But, my permit writer is out today, so I am not completely sure. I can follow up next week with him. John Hennessy Supervisor, Compliance and Expedited Permitting Unit Division of Water Resources Department of Environmental Quality 919-807-6377 office Iohn.hennessv(g)ncdenr.gov 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27669-1617 W- Nothing Compares, Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties. From: Melton, Michael A. fmailto:MAMelton@aquaamerica.com] Sent: Friday, July 01, 2016 9:46 AM To: Hennessy, John <iohn.hennessy@ncdenr.eov> Subject: RE: Country Woods NC0065684 UV Disinfection Thank you John. Also, do you have an update on Riverpark (Hwy 150)? From: Hennessy, John [mailto:john.hennessvCcbncdenr.gov] Sent: Friday, July 01, 2016 9:40 AM To: Melton, Michael A. Subject: RE: Country Woods NCO065684 UV Disinfection You can just send them to me if you want. I will make sure they get into the system. John Hennessy Supervisor, Compliance and Expedited Permitting Unit Division of Water Resources Department of Environmental Quality 919-807-6377 office John. he nnessvC&ncdenr. gov 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27669-1617 PC. "Nothing Compares.... Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law and may be disclosed to third parties. From: Melton, Michael A. [mailto:MAMeltonCa)aguaamerica.com] Sent: Friday, July 01, 2016 7:59 AM To: Hennessy, John <iohn.hennessvCancdenr.gov> Subject: RE: Country Woods NCO065684 UV Disinfection John, good morning. I hope you are well. We have prepared permit renewal applications for the Cape and Beau Rivage WWTPs which are located on the Coast in New Hanover County. Who should I address the permit renewal cover letters to? Thankyou From: Busam, Jennifer d [mailto:Jennifer.BusamCalncdenr.gov] Sent: Thursday, June 30, 2016 4:46 PM To: Melton, Michael A. Subject: RE: Country Woods NCO065684 UV Disinfection Mr. Melton, Thank you for providing the requested information. Sincerely, PAT MCCRORY Y ,a (itnY'1711/11' DONALD R. VAN DER VAART k't'1tC1111'1' Water Resources S. JAY ZIMMERMAN ENVIRQNMENYAL. QUALITY I ffivour April 20, 2016 MEMORANDUM To: Britt Setzer, P.E. NC DENR / DWR / PWS Regional Engineer Mooresville Regional Office From: Bob Sledge Compliance & Expedited Permitting Unit Subject: Review of Draft NPDES Permit NCO074900 Aqua North Carolina — highway 150 WW'TP Iredell County ' . Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the draft permit and return this form by May 20, 2016. If you have any questions on the draft permit, please contact me at (919) 807-6398 or via e-mail at bob.sledge@ncdenr.gov. RESPONSE: (Check one) nX Concur with the issuance of this permit provided the facility is operated and maintained properly, the stated effluent limits are met prior to discharge, and the discharge does not contravene the designated water quality standards. F] Concurs with issuance of the above permit, provided the following conditions are met: Opposes the issuance of the above permit, based on reasons stated below, or attached.: Signed Date:S o State of North Carolina I Environmental Quality I Water Resources 1617 Mail Service Center I Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1617 919-707-9000 North Carolina Mecklenburg County REFERENCE: 145583 The Charlotte Observer Publishing Co. Charlotte, NC } ss Affidavit of Publication } Charlotte Observer NCDENR/DWQ/POINT SOURCE I 0002403813 Public Notice North Carolina Environmental Management Commission/NPDES Unit 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1617 Before the undersigned, a Notary Public of said County and State, duly authorized to administer oaths affirmations, etc., personally appeared, being duly sworn or affirmed according to law, doth depose and say that he/she is a representative of The Charlotte Observer Publishing Company, a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the State of Delaware, and publishing a newspaper known as The Charlotte Observer in the city of Charlotte, County of Mecklenburg, and State of North Carolina and that as such he/she is familiar with the books, records, files, and business of said Corporation and by reference to the files of said publication, the attached advertisement was inserted. The following is correctly copied from the books and files of the aforesaid Corporation and Publication. PUBLISHED ON: 04/21/2016 AD SPACE: 42 LINES FILED ON: 04/21/2016 PUBLIC NOTICE NoM 1817 Melt Service Center Selelgh, NC 27888-t617 Notice of Intent W Issue a NPDES Westmater Permit 1P 1813 to DWR at NAMJ TITLE: DATE: a In Testimony hereof I have hereuntoy�/and ' afffix'ed my seal, the day and year aforesaid. Notary: /'1't -- My commission Expires: My Commission Expires May 27, 2016 AQUA. September 30, 2014 NCDENR / Division of Water Quality/ NPDES Unit 1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-0167 Re: Application for Permit Renewal Aqua North Carolina, Inc. Hwy 150 WWTP NPDES No. NC0074900 Iredell County Gentlemen: Enclosed are three (3) copies of the completed application Form D- WWTP. This submittal includes the necessary attachments for your office to renew the subject permit. If you need any additional information or assistance, please feel free to contact our Regional Compliance Manager, Michael A. Melton @ 704-489-9404 ext. 57238 or by e-mail at MAMelton@aquaamerica.com. I I lul l laa J. IXuucl President & COO Enc 202 MacKenan Court • Cary, North Carolina • 27511 • 919-467-8712 NPDES APPLICATION - FORM D For privately owned treatment systems treating 100% domestic wastewaters <1.0 MGD Mail the complete application to: N. C. DENR / Division of Water Quality / NPDES Unit 1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617 NPDES Permit 000074900 If you are completing this form in computer use the TAB key or the up - down arrows to move from one field to the next. To check the boxes, click your mouse on top of the box. Otherwise, please print or type. 1. Contact Information: Owner Name AQUA NORTH CAROLINA, INC. Facility Name HWY 150 WWTP Mailing Address 202 MACKENAN COURT City CARY State / Zip Code NC 27511 Telephone Number (919) 653-5770 Fax Number (919)460-1788 e-mail Address tjroberts@aquaamerica.com 2. Location of facility producing discharge: Check here if same address as above ❑ Street Address or State Road 130 QUIET COVE ROAD City MOORESVILLE State / Zip Code NORTH CAROLINA 28115 County IREDELL 3. Operator Information: Name of the firm, public organization or other entity that operates the facility. (Note that this is not referring to the Operator in Responsible Charge or ORC) Name AQUA NORTH CAROLINA, INC Mailing Address 202 MACKENAN COURT City CARY State / Zip Code NORTH CAROLINA 27511 Telephone Number (919) 653-5770 Fax Number (919) 460-1788 1 of 3 Form-D 05/08 NPDES APPLICATION - FORM D For privately owned treatment systems treating 100% domestic wastewaters <1.0 MGD 4. Description of wastewater: Facility Generating Wastewater(check all that applyj: Industrial ❑ Number of Employees Commercial ® Number of Employees Residential ® Number of Homes School ❑ Number of Students/ Staff Other ❑ Explain: Describe the source(s) of wastewater (example: subdivision, mobile home park, shopping centers, restaurants, etc.): Population served: 32 Commercial and Residential Connections. 5. Type of collection system ® Separate (sanitary sewer only) 6. Outfall Information: ❑ Combined (storm sewer and sanitary sewer) Number of separate discharge points 1 Outfall Identification number(s) 001 Is the outfall equipped with a diffuser? ❑ Yes ® No 7. Name of receiving stream(s) (Provide a map showing the exact location of each outfaIlj. Catawba River classified WS-IV & B CA waters in the Catawba River Basin S. Frequency of Discharge: ® Continuous ❑ Intermittent If intermittent: Days per week discharge occurs: Duration: _ 9. Describe the treatment system List all installed components, including capacities, provide design removal for BOD, TSS, nitrogen and phosphorus. If the space provided is not sufficient, attach the description of the treatment system in a separate sheet of paper. The 0.10 MGD package plant consist of the following: • Equalization Tank; • Dual 50,000 gpd activated sludge package type WWTP with diffused air and secondary clarification; • Aerated sludge holding tank; • Dual cell tertiary treatment (Sand filters); • Chlorination; • Dechlorination; and • Diffused Post Aeration. 10. Flow Information: Treatment Plant Design flow 0.10 MGD 2 of 3 Form-D 05/08 NPDES APPLICATION - FORM D For privately owned treatment systems treating 100% domestic wastewaters <1.0 MGD Annual Average daily flow 0.032 MGD (for the previous 3 years) Maximum daily flow 0.054 MGD (for the previous 3 years) 11. Is this facility located on Indian country? ❑ Yes ® No 12. Effluent Data Provide data for the parameters listed. Fecal Coliform, Temperature and pH shall be grab samples, for all other parameters 24-hour composite sampling shall be used. If more than one analysis is reported, report daily maximum and monthly average. If only one analysis is reported, report as daily maximum. Parameter Daily Maximum Monthly Average Units of Measurement Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BODS) 4.2 0.24 MG/L Fecal Coliform 56.0 1.20 #/ 100ML Total Suspended Solids 3.7 0.40 MG/ L Temperature (Summer) 27.0 23.3 *Celsius Temperature (Winter) 18.0 11.6 ° Celsius pH 8.6 N/A UNITS 13. List all permits, construction approvals and/or applications: Type Permit Number Type Hazardous Waste (RCRA) NESHAPS (CAA) UIC (SDWA) Ocean Dumping (MPRSA) NPDES NCO074900 Dredge or fill (Section 404 or CWA) PSD (CAA) Other Non -attainment program (CAA) 14. APPLICANT CERTIFICATION Permit Number I certify that I am familiar with the information contained in the application and that to the best of my knowledge and belief such information is true, complete, and accurate. Prin ture of ADDli1ant Ap, Title North Carolina GeneraifStatute 143-215.6 (b)(2) states: Any person who knowingly makes any false statement representation, or certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other document files or required to be maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, or who falsifies, tampers with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any recording or monitoring device or method required to be operated or maintained under Article 21 or regulations of the Environmental Management Commission implementing that Article, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $25,000, or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or by both. (18 U.S.C. Section 1001 provides a punishment by a fine of not more than $25,000 or imprisonment not more than 5 years, or both, for a similar offense.) 3 of 3 Form-D 05108 AQUA SLUDGE MANAGEMENT PLAN For Aqua North Carolina, Inc. No sludge will be treated on any wastewater treatment plant site operated by Aqua N.C., Western Division Where practical, sludge removed from a Aqua N.C., Western Division facility will be transported via a contract hauler to another Aqua N.C., Western Division facility for the purpose of "seeding" a new or under loaded plant. Unusable (or "dead") sludge will be removed by a contract hauler and properly disposed of in accordance with NCGS 148-215.1. Contract haulers used by Aqua N.C., Western Division will be required to report the quantity of sludge transported and identify the location of the proposed disposal site if the sludge is not taken to an existing plant operated by Aqua N.C., Western Division. Aqua N.C., Western Division has not entered into any agreement to accept sludge into its facilities from plants not owned by them. Aqua N.C., Western Division will keep records on the quantity of sludge removed from each facility, the name of the contract hauler, and the destination of the sludge (whether used in another plant or disposed of). The information will be kept on file and will be made available to any regulatory agency having jurisdiction over sludge treatment or disposal. Aqua N.C., Western Division includes all of the facilities under the jurisdiction of the Mooresville Regional Office. 202 MacKenan Court • Cary, North Carolina • 27511 • 919-467-8712