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Kaplan orders water-plant inspection after check-valve failure causes discolored water and pressure drop
Summary
City staff traced recent system discoloration and a pressure drop to a failed check valve at the water plant; the valve and motor are to be replaced and the city will schedule a full plant inspection and report back to council within weeks.
Council heard an update on a recent incident of discolored water and a system pressure drop attributed to a failed check valve at the Kaplan water plant.
City staff said the check valve failure caused an unexpected drop in the clear well and ground storage, which allowed lime and sediment to enter distribution lines. The valve or motor has been disabled and replacement parts have been ordered or are pending; operators are using the alternate motor while repairs proceed. Kramer told the council he asked the plant operator (John Key) to carry out a detailed inspection of the 1985 water plant and return to council in one to two months with recommendations for upgrades, including possible alarm systems to detect future valve problems.
Officials reiterated that state testing shows treated water remains safe to drink despite discoloration, but acknowledged the appearance and intermittent pressure issues can undermine customer confidence and warrant investment in monitoring and equipment upgrades.
