Durham gets good news about leaking water system
Contributing writer
Durham City Council received good news Aug. 3, from Verlin Sommerfeld, water supervisor.
The city water system has been plagued with large water losses for some time, but no major leak could be found. In the past month, several leaks were found and repaired and water loss is now at an all-time low. Sommerfeld reported 360,000 gallons pumped and 357, 950 gallons sold for a loss of .63 percent.
Sommerfeld also reported he had replaced two faulty meters.
The council discussed the possibility of raising water rates; they have not been increased since 2007.
“Our equipment is getting pretty old,” Sommerfeld said. “I would rather raise rates a little bit than wait until we have a problem and have to have a big raise.”
The issue was tabled until the next meeting with the council agreeing to find out the amounts other towns in the area are charging.
Joyce Medley, city clerk, said a resident had talked to her about putting rock in the alley behind his home, because the trash truck was having trouble getting through the area. Council decided to spread rock in that location.
Gary Unruh brought up the question of a leaky hydrant by the former bank building. Sommerfeld said, “If we get specific information on the kind of hydrant, Water Products might be able to give us instructions on fixing. I think it would be pretty expensive to replace, but if that’s what we have to do, we can.”
Mayor Mike Sorenson reported Vince Jantz would be contacting him regarding installation of a feature for water drainage.
Unruh suggested 8 inches of reinforced concrete should be used.
Council briefly discussed a proposed new restroom for the community building. The council had decided at the July meeting to pay one-third of the cost, not to exceed $1,200. Medley reported a similar amount had been pledged from a community fund. Unruh said bids for the work are being solicited.
Among bills approved for payment were $30 for burn site maintenance, $13.50 for repair of the restroom at the city park, and $228 for rock.
Last modified Aug. 12, 2010