City staff outline steps to address clogged filters, park stress as summer heat deepens

Public Works and Parks staff told the council July 15 they have been cleaning and power‑washing irrigation filters throughout the city after earlier-than-usual debris and turbidity — attributed to non‑canyon sources used this year — caused widespread head clogging.

City Engineer Chris Trusty said the switch to supplemental Deer Creek and Murdock Canal water earlier in the season exposed filters to different sediment loads, and staff have cleaned many filter housings multiple times. He said the new pump station at 6000 West will be online near the end of the month and is expected to reduce some filter issues once it is fully operational and electronically controlled.

Parks staff described targeted tactics: overseeding and topdressing at several parks, replacement of spray heads, increased watering frequency on high‑profile corridors (Alpine Highway) and addition of a temporary control box at the community center to allow irrigation there. Staff emphasized that athletic fields remain a priority for water because of safety and playability concerns.

Councilmembers asked about proactive sidewalk and parkway maintenance and the need for a planned sidewalk replacement/inspection program rather than complaint‑driven repairs. Staff said they maintain an active list, respond to complaints, and will evaluate adding a systematic sidewalk inspection and replacement program for future budgets.