BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — The Bismarck City Commission is launching a survey to gauge local businesses' opinions on recent updates to the Industrial Pretreatment Ordinance, which allows the city to prevent businesses from discharging certain pollutants into the sewer.  Last May, local limits were adopted to protect the wastewater treatment plant from receiving waste that may pass through to the Missouri River or interfere with operations. The Industrial Pretreatment Ordinance allows the city to deny businesses from discharging pollutants into the sanitary sewer that may cause: Risks to worker health and safety Damage to infrastructure Interference with the plant’s operations or processes Contamination of biosolids or Missouri River water These include pollutants such as fats, oils, sand, metals, and large volumes of organic materials like milk, soda, and beer. “Our Industrial Pretreatment Program working together with local businesses is our most effective way to protect our wastewater treatment infrastructure,” said Public Works Utility Operations Director Michelle Klose. “We appreciate businesses and industry taking time now to understand and comment on these required changes.” AARP volunteers advocate for issues at State Capitol Organizations that discharge wastewater to the city infrastructure are encouraged to participate in the survey, which will be available starting Friday, January 24. The survey will be live until February 24, and can be accessed on the City of Bismarck's Industrial Pretreatment Program webpage. The feedback gathered over the following month will help the city finalize the ordinance revisions to meet the needs of various organizations that use wastewater infrastructure throughout the capital city.     The following timeline is projected for the next month: January 24, 2025 – Form available for public comment January 28, 2025 – Presentation at City Commission meeting January 29, 2025 – Stakeholder meeting from 3 to 4 PM at the Public Works Large Conference Room, 601 South 26th Street, Bismarck, ND 58504 February 24, 2025 – Public comment form closes  February 25, 2025 – Request approval of Ordinance Revision at City Commission meeting Any changes to the timeline will be posted to the City of Bismarck website. Visit the website for more information. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW