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Edwardsport council discusses major wastewater repairs, mosquito control options and approves PPE purchase
Summary
Council members described extensive sewer-plant repairs needing outside contractors, debated buying a $1,400 fogger vs. a $10,000 seasonal spraying contract for mosquito control, and approved PPE purchases for wastewater staff (estimated $300–$350).
Edwardsport officials used the Sept. 15 meeting to highlight deepening wastewater maintenance needs, weigh mosquito-control approaches and approve safety equipment purchases for public works staff.
Wastewater repairs: multiple speakers described problems at the town’s wastewater plant — failing pumps, grinder and float issues, and electrical connections inside pits that create safety and reliability problems. Council members and staff said the work exceeds local manpower and will be contracted out; staff (referenced as "Matt" in the discussion) has begun gathering quotes but did not have final cost estimates at the meeting. One vendor component — a custom screen — was noted to range from about $6,000 to $9,000 for that single piece, with broader plant repairs likely much higher.
Mosquito control: council members compared options for mosquito mitigation. A contractor to spray April–October was estimated at about $10,000 per season; an alternative was purchasing a full-size truck-mounted fogger for about $1,400 plus chemicals (chemicals estimated less than $4,500). Speakers noted spraying timing matters (spring is most effective) and debated whether to budget for spraying now or plan for next spring.
PPE and safety: council approved a purchase of PPE — bleach cases, double-coated gloves and coveralls — to protect wastewater staff; the clerk estimated the PPE package at roughly $300–$350. Council discussed respirators and face shields and the practicalities of wearing them while working in confined pits.
What’s next: staff will continue to obtain contractor bids for sewer repairs and return cost estimates to the council. The mosquito-control option will be evaluated for timing and budget impact; PPE purchases will be procured so staff can work safely while larger repairs are planned.
