Future rates will depend on the amount of state funding received for the project.

The existing treatment facilities in Goodhue, Wanamingo, Zumbrota, Pine Island, and the Prairie Island Indian Community are failing. They have high operation and maintenances costs and lack room to expand. Discharging at multiple points along the Zumbro River poses environmental issues. Most of these facilities have been impacted by flooding and are susceptible to future floods.

1. A regional sanitary district is a governmental entity responsible for managing and overseeing sanitation services within a specific geographic region. These districts typically handle a range of functions related to public health and environmental protection, including:

• Wastewater Treatment: Managing and operating facilities that treat wastewater to ensure it is safe before being released into the environment.
• Sewer Systems: Overseeing the construction, maintenance, and operation of sewer systems to transport wastewater from homes and businesses to treatment facilities.
• Solid Waste Management: In some cases, these districts may also be involved in managing solid waste, including collection, disposal, and recycling services.
• Regulation and Compliance: Ensuring that wastewater treatment practices comply with local, state, and federal regulations to protect public health and the environment.
• Infrastructure Development: Planning and developing infrastructure improvements to enhance sanitation services and accommodate growth within the region.