FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mayor Bob McDavid - (573) 874-7222

Mayor seeks Hinkson Creek resolution

COLUMBIA, MO (December 22, 2010) - Mayor Bob McDavid announced today that he will ask the City Council for a resolution of support for city administration’s position on the Hinkson Creek TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load). The resolution will result in a presentation by city staff of the city’s position, a public hearing and a Council vote. The resolution will be offered at the Jan. 3 City Council meeting.

City administration, the county of Boone and the University of Missouri have stated that the proposed Hinkson Creek TMDL is difficult/costly to implement and is based on outdated data that does not reflect improvements in the watershed from implementation of control equipment, best management practices and the elimination of discharges in the Hinkson watershed. The city also objected to the 303(d) listing of the Hinkson Creek for unknown pollutants.

“I was surprised by Councilman Paul Sturtz’ comments at the conclusion of the City Council meeting on Dec. 20. Mr. Sturtz feels that Council has had inadequate input into the TMDL objections developed by city administration, the county of Boone and the University of Missouri,” McDavid said. “Because enforcement of a Hinkson Creek TMDL may result in a county-wide tax increase and the possible displacement of property owners required for water detention, I would like robust Council discussion.”

Mayor McDavid said that if the City Council endorses the position of city administration, the county of Boone and the University of Missouri, he will communicate that endorsement to the Environmental Protection Agency.
“If Council rejects the city administration’s position, I will express that rejection to the EPA,” he said.

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