Brian Simmons outlines Mound's water treatment plan addressing manganese contamination

In the heart of Mound City Hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded as city officials gathered to address a pressing issue: the quality of drinking water in the community. Brian Simmons, the senior city engineer, took center stage to provide an update on the long-awaited water treatment solution, a topic that has been on the agenda since 2021 when residents were first alerted to concerns about manganese levels in their water supply.

Simmons emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, acknowledging the frustrations of residents who have questioned the lack of progress on a treatment plant. "The purpose is to provide the residents of Mound with safe and affordable drinking water," he stated, highlighting that the journey toward a solution has been complex and often delayed due to financial constraints.

The discussion centered around the necessity of constructing a water treatment plant to effectively remove manganese and other contaminants from the water supply. Simmons explained that while the city has been adding mandated chemicals like fluoride and chlorine to ensure safety, these measures do not equate to proper water treatment. The proposed filtration system would not only address manganese but also improve overall water quality by eliminating iron and bacteria, which have contributed to cloudy water and negative feedback from residents.

Simmons pointed out that the absence of a treatment plant has implications beyond health concerns; it could potentially affect property values in Mound. "Not having a treatment plant will start to affect property values and resale in Mound," he warned, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

The meeting also touched on the operational costs associated with the current water system, including the labor-intensive process of flushing hydrants to manage sediment buildup. Simmons noted that a treatment plant would reduce these maintenance costs, ultimately benefiting the city’s budget and infrastructure longevity.

As the conversation progressed, council members raised questions about the variability of water quality experienced by residents, with some homes reporting issues while others did not. Simmons explained that this inconsistency could be attributed to factors such as plumbing materials and the direction of water flow in the pipes, which can resuspend settled particles during changes in usage patterns.

The meeting concluded with a call for action, as Simmons and council members discussed the next steps toward securing funding and moving forward with the construction of the treatment plant. The urgency of addressing manganese levels and ensuring safe drinking water for all residents remains a top priority for the Mound City Council, as they navigate the complexities of infrastructure improvements and community health.