The Knox County Board of Commissioners received an update on wastewater projects during its October 21 meeting. The discussion included efforts to address issues with the Harbor View pump station, aimed at preventing backups in residential areas.
"You should pick up 35 to 40 gallons a minute at the minimum on pumping capacity, which, in conjunction with the um leaking laterals that we found, hopefully we won't have any more problems back there with those houses during wet weather times," Water/Wastewater Superintendent Jeff Pickrell told the commissioners, according to a meeting video.
Pickrell said that while some issues remain unresolved, he hopes recent improvements will ensure water is directed back to the wastewater plant rather than into homes. He noted that without a major power upgrade, this is the best solution available. The pumps currently in use are the largest compatible with single-phase power. An electrician upgraded the pump station's control panel as part of the work.
According to Pickrell, a new trackhoe ordered in April has arrived in Maryland and is expected in Knox County by month's end. The county's cost for the equipment will be $38,000 after trade-ins reduced the price from its list value of $109,000. Pickrell mentioned that county crews appreciated a similar model's compactness and tight turning radius for certain tasks.
Pickrell also reported that a water main break in Apple Valley was repaired within two hours. A pipe erosion had caused a significant hole. Following repairs, discussions took place about installing a parallel line as a precautionary measure for future incidents. Low water levels led to advisories urging residents to conserve water.
He further advised commissioners that boil water advisories are issued based on whether water service is interrupted. While sometimes conservative measures are taken when not strictly necessary, he emphasized safety through testing bacteria samples at $20 each. Contractors informed him that parts needed for repairing well No. 6 are available, and progress continues on a seventh well with cost projections due soon. Testing required for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approval will precede installation once approved.
