Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash is proud to celebrate a remarkable achievement by the Commerce and Walled Lake-Novi Wastewater Treatment Plants. The facilities have earned platinum awards from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies for 20 and 19 consecutive years of exemplary compliance record, a distinction shared by only 173 facilities nationwide and the just two in Michigan. Out of 512 facilities recognized nationally, these two plants rank among the top 30 in the country.

“We are incredibly proud of the Commerce and Walled Lake-Novi teams for setting a national standard in water quality treatment and operational excellence,” said Nash. “Their dedication protects our environment, safeguards public health, and demonstrates the highest level of professionalism for which Oakland County is known.”

This year, 198 public agencies nationwide were recognized for outstanding compliance and performance under their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits. The permits are required for facilities that discharge into waters of the United States and set standards to ensure that discharges do not harm water quality or public health. The Commerce and Walled Lake-Novi Plants’ achievements highlight their perfect compliance with these important environmental standards.

The Commerce Wastewater Treatment Plant Team attributes its long-running success to accountability and a strong sense of purpose – treating their work as a service to their community and environment. The Walled Lake-Novi Wastewater Treatment Plant Team emphasizes open communication, collaboration, and continuous improvement. This facility also houses a laboratory that provides critical support to other areas of the organization, including retention treatment basins and water operations.

“Their commitment shines through in the way they approach every task with precision, discipline, and proactive ownership,” said Assistant Chief Engineer Mary Koeger. “These teams are not just showing up for a job – they are showing up for their family, neighbors, and home.”

The 2025 Peak Performance Awards reflect permit compliance for calendar year 2024.

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