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Saltville council hears that 64% of July water supply was unaccounted for; managers push for tank repairs and SCADA access policy
Summary
Town contractors reported 11.3 million gallons — about 64.2% — of July water pumped were unaccounted for; the council directed staff to pursue tank maintenance, consider security rules for the SCADA system and continue leak repairs while two rented pumps remain in use.
Contractors told the Saltville Town Council on Aug. 12 that a large share of the town's July water production was not accounted for, prompting renewed attention to tank maintenance, leaks and security of the town's remote monitoring system.
"Total water pumped, gallons 17,586,443 ... Difference (water unaccounted for), gallons 11,299,279. Water unaccounted for % 64.2," said Gary L. Johnson of EMS, Inc., presenting the firm's July water‑use report. The report lists water sold and accounted uses totaling 6,297,164 gallons and identified inflow/infiltration and leaks as items for follow up.
Why it matters: If the figures are accurate, the town is losing a large portion of produced water before it reaches customers — a concern for operational cost, public health reporting and future project planning. The council received multiple operational updates and asked staff to pursue repairs and a clearer accounting of losses.
Public Works Director Brandon Frye and contractors reported crews have located and are preparing repairs for several leaks, and the town is working with contractors on a broader tank maintenance plan. Town Manager Cecile Rosenbaum said the town is considering a formal maintenance contract with a specialist: "This is an expensive commitment but years of neglect have really left us with no option," she said, urging the council to consider long‑term upkeep costs.
Rosenbaum also reported the town is still operating two rented pumps at the treatment plant while permanent work proceeds. "The 2 rented pumps continue to operate at the treatment plant at a cost of $5,000 a month," she said.
Councilman Ryan Comer raised security and access questions about the SCADA monitoring system, which provides alerts when tanks or levels change. Rick Moore, who works with the system, told the council that SCADA "has really helped in keeping a closer monitor on all the tanks and levels" and recommended the town limit access. Comer asked Rosenbaum to propose a written access/security policy for the SCADA system.
The council approved routine packet items tied to operations — including the list of surplus public‑works equipment — and directed Rosenbaum to set follow‑up meetings with contractor Bert Gore and other vendors so council members can ask detailed cost and timing questions.
Next steps: Public Works will pursue the leak repairs documented by the contractor, Rosenbaum will propose a SCADA access policy, and the council will review tank‑maintenance proposals at a future work session. No additional appropriations or contract awards were approved at the Aug. 12 meeting.
