During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding persistent sewage odors affecting the Park Avenue community. Council members discussed the issue with Director Schreger, who provided insights into the city's odor management strategies.

Schreger acknowledged that the sewage smell has been a long-standing problem, exacerbated by high temperatures and an aging sewer system. He explained that the city has transitioned to using a chemical called bioxide, which effectively treats sewage odors. This method replaced an outdated sodium hypochlorite drip system, leading to significant improvements in odor control.

However, the director noted that extreme heat during the summer months can still lead to odor issues, as the lack of rain prevents the flushing of sewer lines. To address this, the city plans to increase the dosage of bioxide during hotter months and taper it down in colder months to manage costs effectively.

As the city enters the fourth year of its contract for bioxide, officials are considering going back out to bid for the product. With the patent on bioxide expired, there may be opportunities for cost savings, although this could also introduce unfamiliar alternatives. The city aims to ensure that any new product meets the necessary specifications for effective odor treatment.

The discussions highlight ongoing efforts to improve public health and quality of life in the affected neighborhoods, as officials work to mitigate the impact of sewage odors on residents.