FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Orting Declares Emergency to Expedite Wastewater Lagoon Maintenance

ORTING, Wash. — June 22, 2026 — The City of Orting has issued an emergency proclamation to allow for the timely removal of accumulated solids from the City's wastewater treatment lagoon. The action will help ensure continued regulatory compliance, protect the environment, and maintain reliable wastewater service for residents and businesses.

The declaration follows recent guidance from the Washington State Department of Ecology indicating that solids in the lagoon must be reduced sooner than originally anticipated. City staff had planned to bid the project through the standard public procurement process this summer, with work beginning in August. However, updated direction from Ecology requires action to occur more quickly to reduce the risk of future environmental impacts.

Importantly, wastewater services remain fully operational, and there is no immediate threat to public health. The emergency declaration is a procedural step that allows the City to accelerate a specific maintenance project and respond within the timeline requested by state regulators.

Funding for the work has already been identified within existing wastewater budgets and capital reserves. City staff will continue coordinating closely with the Department of Ecology and will provide regular progress updates to the City Council.

Additional information can be requested by emailing communications@cityoforting.org.

 The full Proclamation Declaration of Emergency can be viewed here: Proclamation of Emergency 6-22-26