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Elbert County commits $5,000 to Simla for preliminary water‑quality engineering study
Summary
The board approved a $5,000 county contribution to help pay for a $20,000 preliminary engineering study for the Town of Simla after hearing that 14,000 feet of early‑20th‑century cast‑iron pipe and high iron levels are producing poor water quality and low pressure affecting fire flow and public confidence.
Elbert County commissioners voted Oct. 22 to contribute $5,000 to the Town of Simla to help fund a $20,000 preliminary engineering study of chronic water‑quality and low‑pressure problems.
Mike McEwen, public works director for the Town of Simla, told the board the town is dealing with aging infrastructure — about 14,000 feet of cast‑iron pipe installed in 1914 — and elevated iron in the aquifer that, together with the town's disinfection practices, is degrading water quality and damaging household filters. McEwen said the town has secured $10,000 from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and can commit $5,000; he asked the county for the remaining $5,000 to complete the preliminary report.
"We have 14,000 feet of cast iron pipe that was installed in 1914," McEwen said, describing pressure issues and the potential for reduced fire flow in some neighborhoods. He warned that low pressure could trigger boil‑water notices for a handful of homes and hamper firefighting capability where pressure is below recommended levels.
Commissioners acknowledged the public‑health and safety concerns and said the county's role should be supportive rather than lead; they expressed willingness to help if reserves are available. Commissioner Schroeder moved to approve the $5,000 cost share; the board seconded the motion and approved it by voice vote.
The $20,000 study will identify corrective options for aging pipes, high iron, reduced pressure and impaired fire flow; Simla officials said further county funding requests could follow once the study identifies specific projects and costs.
