1. Continue
to work with the Brewer Water Department on a
second interconnect
between the two
water systems. These interconnects would allow a short-term
emergency supply of water to be fed in either direction.
2. Replace
two existing steel standpipes at Essex Street. These tanks are
old and require repairs and repainting. One new concrete tank
will be constructed replacing the existing tanks. The concrete
storage tank will not need repainting and has significantly
lower long-term maintenance costs. New technology allows
construction of larger concrete storage facilities than
previously possible.
3. Plan
and design for installation of federally mandated additional
water treatment methods (such as ultra-violet disinfection) at
the Butler Ozone Plant by 2013, at an estimated cost of $12
million. (The alternative to UV disinfection could be
construction of a filter plant at a cost of $65 million). Staff
is also investigating a possible variance to the requirement.
4.
Design
overdue upgrades for Johnston Pump Station which has essentially
been on-line since 1957. The upgrades would substantially
increase electrical efficiency.
5. Evaluate
extending current water intake lines to lower depths in Floods
Pond. This would provide additional water under extreme drought
conditions and would also bring cooler, higher quality water
into the plant which could reduce treatment costs associated
with warmer water temperatures in summer months.
6.
Comply
with a state-mandated conversion of our records related to water
lines and valves to an electronic (GIS) format. The new
format—which can be shared with others such as the City of
Bangor—will provide a more in-depth, better organized, and
easier to use database.
7. Conduct a
system-wide directional flushing of all mains, a process
completed every other year to maintain water quality and monitor
the integrity of the system. Opening a hydrant draws water
through the main at a faster than usual speed, allowing any
sediment to be flushed away. The sediment is a corrosion
byproduct associated with pipe (such as iron). Water may be
discolored for a short time after flushing but is safe to drink.
