Georgetown Water Company Addresses Supply Pressure Issues and Expansion Plans

The Scott County Fiscal Court convened on August 8, 2025, to address pressing issues regarding water supply and infrastructure, as well as personnel changes within the fire department. A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing water pressure challenges in the Burton tank pressure zone, which have arisen due to increased demand from new customers.

Chase, a representative from the Georgetown Municipal Water and Sewer Service (GMWSS), reported that the water treatment plant currently processes 3 to 4 million gallons daily, supplemented by half a million gallons purchased from the Frankfort Plant Board. However, the rising demand has led to pressure issues, with some areas experiencing pressures at the regulatory minimum of 20 PSI. This situation has resulted in the inability to accommodate new connections in certain areas, prompting concerns from residents and potential customers.

To address these challenges, GMWSS is implementing a three-pronged approach. In the short term, operational changes are being tested to optimize the existing infrastructure, which have already shown promising results in increasing pressure levels. In the intermediate term, a hydraulic modeling engineer has been tasked with identifying manageable projects to enhance the system's capacity. Long-term plans are also in development to secure additional water sources to meet future demand.

In addition to water supply discussions, the court also addressed a proposal to consolidate ranks within the Scott County Fire Department. The proposal aims to eliminate the lieutenant position, promoting all current lieutenants to captains without a corresponding salary increase. This change has sparked concerns among firefighters regarding the potential reduction in promotional opportunities and the implications for pay scales. Lieutenant Zach Anderson voiced his opposition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clear pathways for advancement and the need for adequate compensation for experienced personnel.

The court ultimately voted to approve the restructuring of fire department ranks, with a provision for a 75-cent hourly increase for those who meet specific criteria to serve as backup for battalion chiefs. This decision reflects the court's commitment to balancing organizational efficiency with the needs and concerns of its personnel.

As the meeting concluded, the court acknowledged the importance of ongoing communication with residents regarding water service issues and the need for careful consideration of personnel changes that impact the community's safety and service quality. The next steps will involve further assessments of both water supply strategies and fire department operations to ensure that Scott County continues to meet the needs of its growing population.