Summary
The wastewater plant's odor problems stem from failed aerators, clogged screening, and missed maintenance. The city manager promised equipment upgrades, annual sludge removal, accountability for Veolia's costs, and said sewer rates will NOT increase.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 4, 2026.
Impact analysis
Short-term fixes run $3-6 million, covered by sewer fund reserves and cost recovery from the operator.
Residents near the plant who have endured the smell.
People living near the plant — Council Member Resendiz called it environmental racism affecting a marginalized west-side population — endure odors and unanswered health questions.
Mentions & discussions (6)
City Council Meeting
The city has formally responded to the state's sewer notice of violation and is tightening contractor oversight and exploring backup partners. The odor-control strategy is reportedly working.
City Council Meeting
The wastewater plant's odor problems stem from failed aerators, clogged screening, and missed maintenance. The city manager promised equipment upgrades, annual sludge removal, accountability for Veolia's costs, and said sewer rates will NOT increase.
City Council - Special Meeting
Hollister's domestic wastewater treatment plant has been producing unacceptable odors due to aging equipment, deferred sludge removal (last done in 2022), and contractor underperformance. New aerators are going in and sludge removal planning is underway, but the council wants accountability, a study session on past decisions, and a stop to new sewer connections until capacity is understood.
Hollister calls for health study amid west-side wastewater odor complaints
Hollister calls for health study amid west-side wastewater odor complaints KSBW
City Council Meeting
The wastewater plant is smelling badly due to failed aerators, aging pumps, and sludge that hasn't been removed since 2022. Fixing it will take months, and farmers can't use the reclaimed water because it fails testing.
City Council Meeting
A resident, Lulu, said sewer smells persist in parts of town — even from faucets — and asked what studies or fixes have happened since the issue was raised a year ago.
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