Lehi City Council appoints water commissioner as utility performance concerns rise

Waukesha's Water Commission made significant strides in its latest meeting, addressing key operational updates and welcoming a new commissioner with relevant expertise. The commission approved a standard developer's agreement for the Springs development, ensuring continued progress in local infrastructure projects.

Dale Matthews, the newly appointed Alderman from the Twelfth District, will bring valuable experience from his role at Badger Meter to the commission. His appointment aims to enhance the commission's oversight of water supply issues, particularly as the city navigates challenges related to its distribution system.

During the meeting, officials reported a decrease in operational disruptions, with only one minor issue since the last meeting. The city is also collaborating with local authorities to sell two dump trucks, optimizing resources for municipal operations.

The commission discussed ongoing concerns about main breaks affecting various communities, attributing some issues to recent weather patterns, including dryness followed by heavy rainfall. The team is hopeful that recent unidirectional flushing efforts have stabilized the system, reducing the frequency of these breaks.

In a move towards modernization, the commission is working with UIC and Black and Veatch to resolve technical issues related to water supply and return flow pump lines. Additionally, they are developing a new app to streamline data collection and improve system management, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency.

As the commission continues to address these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring reliable water service for Waukesha residents while adapting to evolving environmental conditions. The next steps will involve monitoring the effectiveness of recent initiatives and maintaining open communication with the community about ongoing developments.