Environmental Review Panel Rejects Challenge to LRWD Wastewater Plant

LICKING COUNTY — The Licking Regional Water District secured a decisive legal victory after the Environmental Review Appeals Commission dismissed a challenge to a wastewater permit renewal issued by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for the proposed Pet Run Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The ruling, issued yesterday, sets a clear precedent for future wastewater projects, including the upcoming Raccoon Creek Wastewater Treatment Center, and reinforces the regulatory framework for regional infrastructure development.

LRWD was a co-party in the case alongside the Ohio EPA, which issued the permit renewal. The appeal was filed by the villages of Granville and Alexandria and the Municipal Utility Coalition of Licking County.

“This is an important and welcome decision,” said Jim Roberts, Executive Director of LRWD. “The commission’s rejection of the appeal sends a clear signal and will hopefully discourage specious legal challenges in the future.” 

“LRWD has an obligation to meet the growing infrastructure demands of our customers and government partners,” Roberts said. “That requires planning ahead and following a transparent process. We have been confident in the strength of the permitting process and the work behind it.” 

The commission granted LRWD’s motion to dismiss, finding the appellants lacked standing.

The appeal challenged a permit renewal issued by the Director of the Ohio EPA in April 2025. After reviewing filings, the commission concluded the appellants’ claimed harm was speculative and did not demonstrate the concrete or immediate injury necessary to establish standing.

With the appeal resolved, LRWD will continue long-term infrastructure planning to support growth and ensure reliable water and wastewater service across the region.

“We remain focused on delivering dependable infrastructure, protecting water quality and planning responsibly for the future,” Roberts said. “We look forward to continued progress on the Raccoon Creek permit and working with partners committed to constructive, good-faith collaboration.”

A copy of the decision is available here.

The Licking Regional Water District provides water and wastewater services throughout Western Licking County.

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