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Froid council hears water system problems, plans curb-stop and valve work
Summary
At the Feb. 10 meeting the council heard Public Works Director Alan Engelke report a main-line leak and valve overflows that together cost an estimated 80,000 gallons; the council discussed using ARPA funds to replace about 28–30 curb stops and two valves and approved pursuing valve cleanouts as needed.
At its Feb. 10, 2025 regular meeting, the Froid Town Council received a status report from Public Works Director Alan Engelke about recent water-system problems, and discussed short-term maintenance and an ARPA-funded replacement program.
Engelke reported that he replaced lights at the library and described a main-line leak near the old ice rink lot that was caused when bolts rusted off a fitting; crews had to temporarily shut off water to the town and residents were notified as many as possible. Mayor Sheri Crain said the leak filled the area that held the old ice-skating rink; Engelke cleared the snow from the ice and the mayor said she would check with the school about potential liability before suggesting the ice be used for recreational skating.
Mayor Sheri Crain reported that a school-owned house experienced an interior water leak that resulted in an estimated loss of about 80,000 gallons; the school had been aware of that leak before Clerk LeAnn Johnson was alerted during meter reads. Engelke also reported a stuck valve at the Dry Prairie Vault that caused the town’s water tower to overflow on Jan. 29 and Feb. 2; he said he replaced bolts and fittings where needed.
Clerk LeAnn Johnson told the council that American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding is available to replace approximately 28–30 additional curb stops and two water valves, and that the work must be completed by the end of December 2025. Mayor Sheri Crain asked whether the town has spare curb stops on hand; Engelke said a few are available and that he will continue replacing failing curb stops as he identifies them.
On new business, Engelke reported he contacted contractor Adam Nielsen for a quote to pressure-wash/vacuum debris from main water valves; Nielsen’s quote was $150 per hour. Engelke said he will make a prioritized list of valves needing cleanout, and council indicated support for proceeding with maintenance if Engelke determines it is necessary for system reliability.
The council did not take a formal vote on an ARPA project at the Feb. 10 meeting; council members asked staff to continue maintenance work, pursue the valve-cleanout option, and plan the curb-stop replacements within the ARPA timeline. The council is scheduled to reconvene March 10, 2025.
