Committee approves recurring flushing-hazards outreach to curb wipes and protect sewer system

The Public Works Committee approved recurring funding for a flushing-hazards public-education campaign aimed at reducing wipes and other nonflushable items from entering the sewer system.

Public Works staff described the problem as “an enormous problem” that has created safety risks for maintenance crews and contributed to three sewer system overflows last year. "When we have our people putting their hands in pumps and they're pulling out syringes, razor blades, wipes, baby diapers, it's a health issue for my employees," the Public Works Director said.

Committee members discussed campaign scope and distribution. One member asked whether mailings should include septic-system users; staff and committee members agreed broad outreach would be preferable because septage and pumped material can reach the same plant infrastructure. Mr. McGill asked about campaign effectiveness; staff said they did not have clear metrics but expressed support for repeated outreach and for pursuing a council resolution supporting federal labeling of wipes as nonflushable.

Approved uses for the funds include mailing campaigns, targeted advertising on local channels and outreach to renters and apartment buildings (where utility bills may not reach individual occupants). Staff said the program will likely be repeated annually to reinforce the message.

Why it matters: the outreach aims to reduce equipment damage, operator safety incidents and sewer overflows that can trigger regulatory violations. Committee members emphasized multiple touch points for outreach and the importance of reaching users who do not receive direct sewer bills.

Next steps: staff will develop a detailed outreach plan with recommended channels and materials and will consider distribution strategies that reach tenants and septic-system users.