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Tests show coliform and metals in New River-area wells; county seeks emergency grant for treatment
Summary
Microbac testing found total coliform and several metals in well samples; consultants estimated a small treatment-and-storage system for about 20 residences could cost roughly $200,000to $250,000 (excluding distribution mains), and staff will pursue emergency grant options and a preliminary engineering report.
Robert Campbell of Robert Campbell & Associates briefed the commission on Microbac water testing in the New River area and said samples showed detectable coliform and metals (including manganese) and that taste and odor complaints persist.
Campbell noted the March sampling occurred in cooler months and that coliform levels are typically higher in summer; he said one sample showed total coliform at 3.1 MPN at a residence while the church sample was non-detect. He presented preliminary treatment concepts: a well pump, a treatment train to remove metals and pathogens, storage (a suggested 10,000-gallon tank if serving about 20 residences) and distribution. Capital costs for treatment and storage were estimated in the rough range of $200,000to$250,000, not including water mains, transport logistics or long-term O&M and operator certification costs.
On funding, Mitchell Lummis and Campbell said emergency or disaster grant sources may cover the majority of capital costs (commonly 80% matching and sometimes 90% or higher for emergency funding) and that East Tennessee Development District staff was engaged to explore grant eligibility. Campbell said the team is preparing a preliminary engineering report and expected to deliver draft numbers in about a month to six weeks to support grant applications.
Commissioners discussed operational options if the system is built: the county could contract a certified water operator or seek operation by Anderson County Water Authority (ACWA); Campbell noted utilities are not required to take on systems outside their service areas and ACWA had indicated limited interest so far. Commissioners asked for more detail on O&M, operator responsibilities, siting (easements vs. county-owned property) and potential customer billing or surcharge mechanisms for remote connections.
Why it matters: Residents in the New River area report unsafe or unpleasant water and the commission directed staff to pursue grant funding and return with a completed preliminary engineering report, cost breakdown and recommendations for operations and O&M.
