Capitol News

State Representative Jennifer Wortz and Bronson city officials have announced the allocation of $609,000 in state funding for the replacement of the ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system at the City of Bronson’s wastewater treatment facility. The funds were approved as part of the recent state budget process.

Wortz, who represents Quincy, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project: “Getting the money for this key infrastructure is a perfect example of how state and local leaders can work together for the betterment of our communities,” Wortz said. “The City of Bronson came to me with a request for this funding through the state budget. Through our combined efforts, we were able to successfully negotiate and secure these dollars in the final agreement. This new disinfection system will ensure Bronson’s water is safe for residents and businesses alike.”

The existing UV system was installed in 1993 and has exceeded its intended lifespan. According to city officials, replacement parts are increasingly difficult and costly to find. A recent lightning strike also disabled an essential control panel, requiring staff to operate the system manually.

The planned installation will introduce a modern, energy-efficient system that restores automated controls and aims to improve reliability while ensuring consistent disinfection.

Bronson City Manager Brandon Mersman commented on the impact: “This funding is a significant victory for the City of Bronson sanitary sewer system,” Mersman said. “Our current UV system is beyond its useful life and in need of a more efficient automated system. We are incredibly grateful to Representative Wortz for her dedication in championing this critical infrastructure project and bringing it to the finish line. This new energy-efficient system secures the long-term integrity of our sanitary sewer discharge, improves operational reliability, and reduces the burden of the immense cost of necessary system upgrades.”

Earlier this month, lawmakers passed the state budget which was signed into law by Governor Whitmer last week. State agencies are expected to begin working with municipalities like Bronson soon to distribute funds for projects such as this one.