The following article was submitted by Delegate Bob Long about a public meeting on an update about the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant
Last week I attended the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) public meeting that updates residents on their progress regarding operations at the Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant (BRWWTP).
They put on a good show indicating accomplishments over the year and data transparency. They completed 36 of 49 Consent Decree requirements already and noted they were below permit limits for Effluent Quality in the areas of Suspended Solids, Nitrogen, and Total Phosphorous since January 2024.
Unfortunately, they still have much work to do. I trust my senses. The odor around that area is noxious at times. Where else would it come from other than the plant? DPW admitted that ideally, there should never be an odor at the plant. They never said the plant was the source of the odor. They said it is still under investigation, noting several other nearby areas that could produce that smell.
Another issue is the increase in the midge population. Our area was overwhelmed with those pesky insects this summer. DPW believes the midges were caused by a wet spring which caused a low salinity.
They have noted using BTI treatment at the plant since 2022. They also noted that the species of midges that were at the plant were different than the species in the river, therefore, the plant is not the source of the midges.
I still think they have more investigation to do since they are the largest wastewater treatment plant in Maryland and midges thrive in nutrient rich environments.
At the meeting I advised local residents affected by the air quality and midges to appeal their property taxes. During the summer months, residents have avoided the outdoors at their property.
If the government hasn’t fixed the mess, residents should be able to receive a rate reduction on their bill. The government won’t automatically do this, you have to apply for this. The deadline for appealing mid-cycle property tax assessments is December 31, 2025.
Follow my Facebook page for upcoming posts about appealing your property tax. You can also reach out to my office at 410-841-3458 or by email bob.long@house.maryland.gov for more information.
