During a recent government meeting, officials discussed several key updates regarding the local water treatment system and ongoing infrastructure projects.

Dave, a representative from the water department, highlighted concerns about the water quality in the distribution system, which has reportedly declined due to excessive heat. Issues such as depressed chlorine residuals, the detection of nitrites, and pH levels were noted. To address these problems, the department plans to conduct a chlorine conversion starting August 5, transitioning from chloramines to chlorine for approximately seven to eight weeks, similar to a procedure carried out the previous year.

Additionally, the meeting covered the Blake Massifiec feasibility study, which aims to assess the implications of raising a local lake's water level by one foot to increase water supply capacity. A meeting with consultants and regulatory bodies is scheduled for August 7 to discuss the project's jurisdiction and potential impacts.

Updates were also provided on various infrastructure projects. The raw water pump replacement project has been awarded to Premier Pump, with expectations for the new pumps to arrive by late this year or early next year due to long lead times. Meanwhile, door replacements at the water treatment plant are underway, and improvements have been made to the Meramec River water treatment plant, where issues with pump vibrations have been resolved.

Concerns regarding reduced filter run times and increased backwash frequencies at the new treatment plant were raised, prompting collaboration with the filter supplier to identify solutions. Furthermore, a request for qualifications related to a new administrative building is currently open, with submissions due by August 16.

Overall, the meeting underscored the department's proactive approach to maintaining water quality and infrastructure, while also addressing challenges posed by environmental conditions and supply chain delays.