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Council hears report on low‑flow 'red top' hydrants; Chief asked to coordinate long‑term plan
Summary
City leaders flagged roughly two dozen low‑flow hydrants ('red tops'); council asked Fire Chief Little to work with utility staff to develop a long‑term fix and to seek grant funding where available.
Council members discussed several fire hydrants across the city designated as low‑flow "red tops," noting these hydrants are unsuitable for full firefighting flow and should be addressed as part of a longer‑term infrastructure plan.
Councilman Harrell, reporting for the utilities board, said the system is strong overall but identified approximately 20–27 red‑top hydrants; some are on small mains or dead‑end loops that limit pressure. "So I'd like first take some sort of action...authorize Chief Little to work with Mr. Greg Jones at CUB for a long term plan," Harrell said, noting fixes can range from simple relocations to main upgrades.
Chief Little and council members discussed funding approaches, including using the $50 monthly fee the city currently pays for underperforming hydrants toward replacement parts or upgrades. Chief Little cautioned some hydrant issues are not quick fixes because of small‑diameter mains and elevations; Harrell suggested the city investigate grants and multi‑year planning.
Council recorded a motion to authorize the chief to coordinate with utility staff and to explore options; the transcript records support for pursuing a plan, seeking grant opportunities and reporting back. No detailed timetable or funding commitment was recorded in the transcript.
