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Fredonia board, Department of Health and engineers press to accelerate chlorinator replacement and water-plant fixes
Summary
Trustees, Department of Health representatives and LaBella engineers discussed longstanding deficiencies at Fredonia’s water treatment plant, the need to replace chlorination equipment and next steps for funding, bids and emergency authority.
Village trustees and staff, water-plant supervisors and representatives of the Chautauqua County Department of Health and engineering firm LaBella discussed steps to replace the water plant’s chlorination system and address broader infrastructure issues during the March 3 meetings.
The conversation followed a county Department of Health inspection that cited multiple deficiencies at the plant. Trustee Bridal summarized the inspection findings, saying the report listed 33 issues, nine dating to 2017 or earlier and five dating to 2008 or before, and that about two‑thirds of the reservoir’s capacity is silted and effectively unavailable.
Water-treatment supervisor Louis Fred and plant staff described operational limits and the immediate need to improve chlorination and access for maintenance. Officials said alternative quotes were received from vendors (including Lavelle), but one submitted quote omitted an engineering component; the village requested finalized pricing to permit a funding discussion with the Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC).
Legal/process point: Village officials asked who could declare an emergency to bypass competitive bidding. Representatives from the Department of Health told the village that the county health department does not declare municipal states of emergency for bidding purposes and that any such emergency declaration would be up to the village.
What the board directed or discussed: Trustees and staff pressed the engineering firm LaBella to fast-track plant drawings and to provide engineering cost estimates. LaBella offered to scan and digitize plant drawings and fast-track structural and electrical assessments. Staff discussed automating the chlorination dosing system and identified potential storage and temperature-control modifications for chlorine totes and integration possibilities with the plant’s automation panel.
Funding and grants: Trustees noted a near-term grant opportunity — a New York State grant with a 20% local match and a maximum of $50,000 — and asked plant staff to work with the treasurer to prepare an application. The village also indicated intent to consult with the EFC and village attorneys on bidding rules and emergency authority.
What remains unresolved: Vendors had not delivered all requested engineering quotes by the meeting. The board asked staff to continue pursuing complete quotes, consult the village attorney about procurement rules, and follow up with the EFC and Department of Health. No final contract or bid award was made at the meeting.
