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WPCA hears operational updates: AMI metering expansion, lead‑line inventory and PFAS tests pending
Summary
Staff reported expanded metering telemetry, near‑real‑time consumption reporting, an ongoing lead‑service‑line inventory (about 850 of 2,600 homes completed), PFAS samples submitted with lab results expected in early October, and a 6.7 MGD safe‑yield estimate from well testing.
At the meeting staff gave a broad operational update covering metering, water quality sampling, well yields and capital projects.
On metering and telemetry, staff said the department added gateways to expand remote meter reads and is preparing to install a third receiver to capture additional radios. New software can now display near‑real‑time consumption so staff can identify spikes and notify customers when leaks or unusual usage patterns occur.
The board heard an update on the lead‑service‑line inventory required by EPA. Staff said the city has identified roughly 2,600 homes to screen and has completed about 850 inventories through door‑to‑door outreach, door hangers and self‑reporting. Staff said very few lead service lines have been found so far; galvanised lines remain a concern because they can conceal lead components. The inventory must be submitted to the state by October 16; properties not confirmed will be reported as "unknown" and customers will receive follow‑up notices.
Water‑quality testing included a reported round of PFAS (per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances) samples submitted to a lab with results expected in early October. Staff also reported replacement of a fluoride bulk tank and ongoing redevelopment of two wells; a recent coordinated test of 10 wells produced a safe‑yield estimate of about 6.7 million gallons per day.
Staff updated the board on capital projects including sewer main lining, manhole repairs, and a feasibility study request for a deteriorated pipe bridge that carries a 20‑inch sewer main. They also noted continued work on contamination testing and disposition options for a soil pile with possible PCB contamination; options include additional testing and out‑of‑state disposal, both of which could be costly.
The board asked questions about telemetry coverage, billing spikes, and timelines for compliance filings. Staff said they will continue door‑to‑door outreach for the lead inventory and will report PFAS results and remaining inventory counts at future meetings.
What happens next: staff will submit the lead inventory to the state by the October deadline, report PFAS lab results when available and continue coordination on the pipe‑bridge feasibility study and related capital projects.
