Be Careful What you Flush

City Administrator Beverly Hicks invited fifth grade teacher Amber Lewis to give a presentation to the City Council at the regular March meeting. Lewis is the daughter of the Wastewater Department Supervisor Rob Rackley and Alderwoman Susan Rackley. She gives this presentation to her class, not only to teach them about the wastewater treatment process, but to call her pupils’ attention to how everyday actions can have a big impact on the city facility. 

 

“It’s exciting to know she is teaching something so applicable to our own town,” commented Hicks. 

Hicks asked Lewis to share the presentation after observing the costs associated with the daily maintenance issues caused at the plant when residents flush non-biodegradable items down their toilets.

 

Last year, the City spent $25,000 on new pumps at the wastewater treatment plant damaged by the presence of solid materials that should not be in the system like “flushable wipes,” diapers, clothing, and other debris. Hicks says the 2021 budget is prepared to spend the same amount this year. 

 

“If people would just be more responsible, it’s an instant impact on the savings in the water treatment plant,” Hicks remarked.