Gas plant 'tolling agreement' to be considered by commission

IRONWOOD — The Ironwood City Commission on Monday may learn how much the city owes for the gasification plant cleanup of four years ago. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and city have been involved in what is called a “tolling agreement” with the EPA. The agreement will come before the commission on Monday.

City clerk Karen Gullan said Friday she did not know if two two sides have reached an agreement on sharing project costs.

City manager Scott Erickson previously told the city commission he did not think the city’s share of the cost would be high.

The former Ironwood Manufactured Gas Plant was located on the northwest corner of Hemlock and West Ayer streets in area that’s called the Flats. It produced and distributed gas to Ironwood and Hurley until the late 1950s.

Fahrner Excavating currently operates out of that area, near the Montreal River.

Contamination from coal tar was discovered during a bridge construction project on the river, necessitating the 2012-’13 cleanup when a study showed the presence of hazardous substances.

The cleanup effort has long since been completed, but the negotiations have continued.

In other business Monday, the commission will consider final payment to Binz Brothers Well Drilling and Pump Service for well rehabilitation and a new pump for Well 202 of $26,775.

Tires aren’t cheap for the city loaders and commissioners will consider awarding the lowest bid for eight tires to Pomp’s Tire for $16,840.

The commission will discuss the purchase of a 2018 Dodge Charger patrol car for the Ironwood Public Safety Department from LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep for $24,297.

Larry Rovelsky will be on the agenda to discuss the 16-inch water main transmission construction project.

Appointment of representatives to the Gogebic-Iron Wastewater Authority and Board and an employee assistance program are also on the agenda.

New IPSD Director Greg Klecker will be sworn in.