The Basin County Water and Sewer Board upgraded its operation last month after an unfortunate issue with one of its two water pumps.
“The pump went out because there was no water to pump,” said DeDe Rhodes, board director. “The well is only 32 feet deep and the water was not reaching the pump, which caused it to burn up. This could happen to any pump.”
To fix the situation, the board approved the purchase of a new pump and motor, for a cost of $5,735.
The board expects insurance to cover the cost.
This was an unanticipated setback for the board, but one that they can handle, said board president Jason Norman.
“We have some money for this, but we don’t have a lot,” he said. “For a system as small as ours, this takes a pretty good chunk of the budget.”
Norman doesn’t like to admit it, but he said if there are more unforeseen circumstances that impact the district’s budget, the board may have to consider raising water and sewer rates.
“This pump was less than two years old, and the other pump could have the same problem,” Norman said. “It’s a shallow well.”
This being the case, Rhodes said it is critical the board look into a backup water source, especially considering the proximity of the water system to the 55-mile-per-hour curve on Interstate 15.
“It’s a gradual curve with a mean 90-degree turn that causes a lot of wrecks,” Rhodes said. “My fear is – from a fire department point of view – if something gets into that river, is it going to get into my well?”
Ultimately, Rhodes said, the board needs a better well pump and a deeper well, preferably in a location that’s not as accessible to a hazardous situation.
Other Business
The Basin County Sewer and Water Board will host a special meeting Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 6:30 p.m. at Basin Elementary School. The intent of the meeting is to discuss the potential of hiring Kory Klapman of Whitehall to serve as water/sewer operator. Klapman is currently the water operator for Whitehall’s water and sewer district.
“[Klapman] also expressed that he’s more than willing to help train people,” Norman added. “He will set up free training for a sewer or water operator if the trainee is willing to travel down to Whitehall.”
Norman said he’s grateful Klapman is willing to step up and help at this critical time, as it’s imperative the board have a water operator as soon as possible.
The board will have its next regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8 at Basin Elementary.
