Questions for Aqua-Aerobic Systems Presentation – November 6, 2025

[Paul Roberts]

Colleagues,

For Thursday’s agenda item regarding the Aqua-Aerobic Systems presentation on the Aqua Prime Cloth Media Filter, I used ChatGPT to help review the packet and compile a structured list of questions. Since this is a presentation-only item, I plan to use the opportunity to better understand how this technology might fit within our long-term wastewater strategy.

Below are the key points and questions I intend to raise for clarification during or after the presentation:

1. Technology Readiness​

• Most reference installations appear to be outside Texas.
• Has this system been permitted or piloted under TCEQ standards?
• Are there any current Texas municipal installations, and what was the approval process?

2. Maintenance and Local Support​

• The system involves rotating disks and vacuum backwash components.
• What are the routine maintenance requirements and operator skill needs?
• Are spare parts and service technicians available in Texas, and what’s the media lifespan?

3. Retrofit Integration​

• Lago Vista’s facilities are small and primarily gravity-fed.
• Can the system operate without additional pumping?
• What headloss or hydraulic changes would be required for retrofit applications?

4. Cost Perspective​

• While the presentation is informational, cost context will help future evaluations.
• What is the typical installed cost per MGD, and how do operating costs compare to clarifiers or MBR systems?
• Can Aqua provide cost–benefit data from existing municipal users?

5. Applicability to Lago Vista​

• Our system doesn’t experience large wet-weather surges.
• How would this technology benefit small dry-weather plants like ours?
• Could it support nutrient reduction or reuse goals without expanding tankage?

6. Energy and Sustainability​

• The packet references energy savings and increased biogas production.
• What energy savings per MGD have been documented at similar-scale sites?
• Are there grant or sustainability funding opportunities associated with this system?

These are not criticisms, just due diligence questions to ensure Council and staff have the full picture before considering future planning implications.