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Hebron water superintendent flags valve failures; plans inspections and bolt replacements
Summary
Water Superintendent Jason Figgins reported recurring valve bonnet failures attributed to inferior zinc‑plated hardware, said he will inspect the distribution system and replace bolts to reduce service interruptions, and noted records show public right‑of‑way service lines are copper when asked about lead.
Water Superintendent Jason Figgins told the Village of Hebron Council on April 9 that recurring valve bonnet failures in the distribution system — particularly on Cumberland Street — are linked to the use of inferior zinc‑plated hardware and that the village may need a capital project to fully address the issue.
Figgins said he plans a systemwide inspection of valves and intends to replace bolts where needed to reduce depressurizations and service interruptions. He also described a historical change in valve coatings from tar to epoxy and said some modern materials have proved less corrosion‑resistant in practice.
Responding to a question about lead in drinking water, Figgins said Columbus is replacing galvanized lines in older homes but that village records indicate service lines in the public rights of way in Hebron are copper. Figgins also reported the rehiring of an employee, Cody Sanford, and said that a decline in water production appeared linked to a utility billing‑system audit and greater customer conservation.
Water Reclamation Superintendent Tom Coleman added that the ABW filter replacement is in progress, UV disinfection and algae cleanup are scheduled, and that more than four inches of rain over the weekend did not cause equipment failures.
The minutes include references to historical statistics on depressurizations and valve failures dating back to 2013 but do not provide those figures; Figgins said staff will check all valves and replace bolts as an interim mitigation while options for a capital project are evaluated.
