A contractor from Double D Plumbing told Bradley County commissioners that a recent repair exposed severe sediment buildup in a roughly 21-year-old hot-water line inside the county jail, and urged the county to budget for ongoing, sometimes costly, repairs.

Jonathan, identified in the meeting as the Double D representative, showed pictures and passed around a section of pipe he said had a pinhole leak in solder and that about three-quarters of the 1-inch line's interior was filled with hardened sediment. He said the area is tight to access'requiring cutting sheetrock and metal, and that some runs are within block walls. He recommended periodic flushing of hot-water heaters and said replacing copper runs with PEX could reduce buildup and improve access, though he cautioned no single remedy will eliminate future maintenance costs.

Commissioners asked whether the sediment was lime buildup and whether a water-treatment system would help. Jonathan said the city chlorinates and filters water; the sediment appears to be lime and calcium. He warned that installing treatment without providing access could dislodge sediment and cause downstream clogs. He estimated the most recent repair cost "a little over $1,000" but said costs vary widely depending on access and wall repairs.

The sheriff said he will have staff (including Cassandra and Jonathan) drain the holding tank to inspect sediment levels and will report back. He also said another leak was being investigated in the North Training Room. Commissioners were told maintenance-line increases will likely be needed in the next budget cycle, but no specific appropriation was approved at this meeting.