MOUNT VERNON — A report on monthly activities was given by Water/Wastewater Superintendent Jason Figgins when he met Thursday morning with the Knox County Commissioners.
Updates are ongoing with the Sensus Flex-net meter reading system. This will be an automated reading system which will eliminate manual readings. It should also assist with leak checks, help eliminate water loss and allow customers to view their bills online. There are currently 2,800 meters which are read manually. With about 10 Flex-net meters connected thus far, it is hoped that all will be programmed by March 8 in time for the setup/training for integrating Flex-net and Software Solution Billing. “I’m glad you’re beginning to get the meters installed,” said commissioner Teresa Bemiller.
A permit to install Little Jelloway water/wastewater improvements has been received by Ohio EPA. No timeline has been set yet for the projects.
Solids are being removed from the south basin in preparation for construction of the Little Jelloway treatment plant. About 20,000 gallons of biomass is being transferred from Centerburg to assist in this project. This will also allow them to take care of some sludge. Figgins added that there will be no trucking expense in the project.
A few customers are seeing replacement of lines between the water main and the meters. Copper lines are being replaced with plastic due to leaks being discovered.
Another project is the upgrade of production wells from throttling valves to variable speed drive for utility cost savings and less wear and tear on equipment.
Figgins reported a water main break on Jan. 10 at Magers Road and East Street in Howard. Approximately 18 customers were affected. “Everything went well,” said Figgins, stating that the break was isolated and all residents were taken care of.
Figgins asked for direction from the commissioners, asking if they should be attending township/association public meetings to discuss monthly billing. With all commissioners believing it would be a good idea, commissioner Allen Stockberger volunteered to attend these meetings along with Figgins.
