Sigurd officials review multi-step plan to stop chlorinated water wasting spring supply

Town technicians and public-works staff presented a multi-part engineering plan aimed at preventing chlorinated water from displacing the town’s spring water and improving system reliability. The work would reconfigure connections at the spring and south tanks, add a y-connection and valves so both the 6-inch and 8-inch lines can be used, and install an altitude valve to control tank fill and prevent waste. A blow-off and flushing point would be added so staff can isolate and flush lines without interrupting supply.

The presenter said the project also calls for capping a cross-connection that previously allowed spring water and chlorinated town water to mix, and for a final tie to the chlorinator through a controlled valve assembly. If the initial valve adjustments do not stop overflowing or stagnation, the contingency plan is to add an altitude valve and a booster pump at the chlorinator to maintain chlorination flow and prevent loss of treated water.

Council members asked whether the contractor would cover the adjustments; the presenter said payment arrangements and a formal bid were pending and that he expected the physical work to take about two weeks once all materials and contractor availability were confirmed. The presenter also said the contractor would check water-rights and permitted uses for spring water applications and report back to the council.

Why it matters: Councilors said the reconfiguration is intended to avoid wasting treated water, reduce stagnant lines, and protect water quality while ensuring reliable supply to the town. The council asked staff to obtain bids, clarifications on water‑rights questions, and a contractor presentation to the full council before work begins.

Next steps: Staff said a contractor will return with full drawings, a bid and schedule; council asked that the contractor explain funding responsibilities and the timeline before the town authorizes construction.