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Utility staff show sewer televising images, report Mantino odour issues and upcoming MS4 audit
Summary
Superintendent and lab staff showed televising photos illustrating grease and root obstructions, reported a clogged bypass pump at Garrick likely caused by large debris, discussed Mantino fog issues tied to an industry, and noted an upcoming MPDS/MS4 permit audit by the Illinois EPA.
City utility staff used sewer-camera footage at the Feb. 17 Environmental Services Utility Board meeting to illustrate common sources of blockages and the value of in-house televising.
Superintendent described camera images that showed heavy grease, root balls and resident lateral intrusions that can obstruct city mains; the televising truck was described as an "asset" the utility uses daily to diagnose whether backups are infrastructure problems or resident lateral issues. "One of the best services that I think we provide to the residents is...we televise the line just to see what's exactly...it's not a city issue," the superintendent said.
Andrew Collins reported a clogged bypass pump at Garrick that was stripped of bearings by large debris; crews worked overnight to pull and repair pumps and remove obstructions. Collins said the debris was "most likely from the jail," a statement recorded in the meeting exchange.
Staff also flagged ongoing fogging issues in the Mantino area connected to at least one industrial discharger and described steps taken with Wet Well Wizard and Greasell to manage impacts. Lab staff said temporary personnel shortages over recent weeks have limited capacity but expected staff back to full strength soon.
The superintendent noted that Brandon achieved MS4 certification and that the city has an Illinois EPA MPDS permit audit coming next month; staff cautioned that permit updates will add requirements and the utility is compiling documentation in advance.
Board members asked about a specific city-owned street tree and sewer lateral on South Lincoln; staff explained roots grow into preexisting cracks and reiterated the city’s roughly three-year maintenance rotation for sewer cleaning and televising.
