Sellersburg council approves emergency wastewater screen repair and awards chemical and waterline work

The Town of Sellersburg council on June 8 authorized immediate repairs and multiple operational contracts for the town’s water and wastewater systems.

Emergency wastewater screen repair Staff told the council that two screening/compactor units at the wastewater plant had failed and that the vendor’s proprietary parts were the only compatible replacements. The quoted sole-source repair totaled $58,236.84 and the vendor lead time was described as roughly three months; the council moved, seconded and approved the emergency repair.

Plant staff and council attributed the failures to accumulation of wet wipes and similar nonflushable items. Staff said these items form large masses that damage screens and augers and increase operating costs. The meeting record shows plant staff and council discussed continuing public outreach; staff said the town had previously distributed a newsletter and would consider a reminder on customer bills to reduce wipes entering the system.

Wastewater chemical awards At bid opening, staff identified Hexagon Technologies as the apparent low bidder for the polymer used in processing (transcript lists the price as “1580 per gallon” as stated at the bid opening). Sco (Sco Water) (transcript lists “1665 per gallon”) was the other polymer bidder. The council approved the low polymer award to Hexagon Technologies. Staff later noted an additional bid line for a phosphorus-treatment chemical (polyaluminum chloride / phosphorus discharge chemical) and recommended awarding that chemical to Sco Water at the price listed in the record (“431 per gallon” in the transcript); the council approved that award.

Waterline bypass contract near 403 Town Manager Charlie described repeated breaks on a water main near Maple Street and 403 and said three quotes were solicited to bore under SR-403 and connect to the main on the far side, vacating the failing section. The council approved a motion to award the work at $26,965 to the apparent low bidder to perform boring and service taps.

What it means for residents Staff said the wastewater repair is an immediate operating expense to restore plant screening capability and avoid further damage. Council members stressed outreach to residents about disposal of wipes and other materials that can damage pumps and screens. The chemical awards and polymer purchases were described as routine procurement to keep plant operations on schedule.

Sources: Meeting statements by plant operator Lori, Town Manager Charlie and council motions recorded during the June 8 meeting.