Confidentiality and Submittal of Plans and Specifications

Plans and specifications for security measures to be installed as a stand-alone project do not normally need to be reviewed by the DNR because most security equipment would not affect the treatment processes. See reviewable projects definition for more information.

If, however, the community intends to seek funding for a security system from the Clean Water Fund Program then plans and specifications must be submitted.

The article, “Clean Water Fund Eligibility of Security Equipment”, provides information on the types of security equipment that are eligible for loan funding.

Plans and specifications for security equipment that will receive funding through the Clean Water Fund Program should follow these steps:

Information submitted to the DNR during plans and specifications review is subject to the open records law. The DNR must make this information available to the public upon request. To protect the confidentiality of wastewater security measures during plans and specifications review by the DNR, follow these recommended steps:

• Do not submit plans and specifications showing the routings or location of security equipment.
• Do submit a list of security equipment items and associated costs.
• Do send normal plans and specifications for back-up generators.

To protect the confidentiality of wastewater security equipment during the bidding process, consider these options:

• Request prospective contractors prepare their bids on the installation of security equipment using plans and specifications retained by your facility at an on-site designated area.
• Security equipment separated out as an equipment item in a construction contract may not be subject to competitive bidding requirements.

Text in part from, “The Clairfier”, Volume 160, April 2005. (www.wwoa.org)

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