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Dana board: new lift‑station pump installed; baby wipes clogging pumps could force rate increase
Summary
The Dana Town Council heard that a new lift‑station pump has been installed and is being commissioned; board members warned that residents flushing baby wipes are clogging pumps and said repeated damage could lead to higher rates to cover repair costs.
The Dana Town Council on April 14 was told that a new lift‑station pump has been installed and contractor UMAC is working to get it running properly, and board members warned that residents flushing baby wipes are clogging pumps — damage that could require higher water/sewer rates to cover repeated repairs.
Bruce McElheny, identified in the meeting as the UMAC sewer operator, reported the pump installation and said UMAC is working to bring the unit online and ensure reliable operation. Council members and Clerk/Treasurer Michelle Doan said baby wipes are creating clogs at the lift station and causing costly repairs.
Board members characterized the wipes as an avoidable source of damage and said continued incidents could require the town to raise rates to offset repair and maintenance expenses. The board did not set a new rate or schedule a public hearing on rates at the April 14 meeting.
The council also learned that Eric from EMC Insurance is handling claims related to a recent lightning strike at the sewer plant; Eric told the clerk he is working to assemble and file claims connected to that incident. The board reviewed a sewer report and the town’s water report, which showed water loss of 1 percent for the last month.
The board asked staff to continue monitoring the lift station and encouraged residents not to flush baby wipes or other non‑flushable items. Council members said further action — including a potential rate discussion — will be determined if clogs and repair costs persist.
