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Council hears wastewater plant plea for new ladder and bar screen after repeated pump damage
Summary
Utility staff asked the council to fund a new steel ladder and install a temporary bar screen to stop debris that has damaged pumps; staff said one replacement pump cost $33,000 and ongoing manual clearing is unsustainable.
Utility staff told the New Richland City Council that debris flowing into the wastewater plant is jamming pumps and damaging equipment, and requested a new steel ladder for safe access and installation of a temporary bar screen to reduce trash entering the system.
The utility representative described the current ladder as original to the facility (likely installed in the 1950s) and “disintegrating,” creating a safety hazard for staff who must enter the trickling filter. The representative said pumps have been fouled by diapers, wipes, plastic bags and other items; one 10‑horse pump replacement cost $33,000 and there are multiple pumps at risk.
Staff presented a temporary manual screen they designed to catch debris and said it can be operated manually until permanent funding for plant upgrades is available. Council members asked about safety during heavy rains and whether the manual solution could be secured; staff said the screen is pinned and can be pulled out safely and that temporary mitigation is possible while seeking funds.
Council accepted the utility report and instructed staff to pursue solutions and funding, noting the issue raises both a capital need and a public‑education opportunity about what residents should not flush.
