Amherst County Service Authority addresses discolored-water complaints, permit review and staffing changes

The Amherst County Service Authority on Feb. 4 reviewed recent discolored-water complaints on Isaac Walton Road and Kenmore Farms Road, updates on several infrastructure projects and permits, and staffing changes, while approving the meeting agenda and consent items by voice vote.

Authority staff reported that sediment likely stirred by a past hydrant scouring event moved through the system after crews were unable to flush lines immediately because of extreme cold. Staff said they have been opening hydrants, flushing lines and working with affected customers to run water through their homes and clear discolored water. The authority provides a standard credit equal to 100 cubic feet of water to customers who flush and reports adjustments will be made if usage shows a larger volume than that credit covers.

The authority flagged a recurring concern on Kenmore Farms Road, where past use of hydrants by a nearby landfill to fill tanker trucks and for road cleaning has previously correlated with water-quality complaints. Staff said the landfill will be encouraged to obtain water from the authority’s treatment plant directly when needed so the authority can better isolate potential sources.

In staffing updates, authority staff reported three recent departures — a wastewater utility worker, a water operator level 2 and a mechanic apprentice — and said a verbally accepted offer has been extended for a water operator…