PEA RIDGE — Trying to meet the increased capacity demands as well as meet federal restrictions, Pea Ridge City Council members approved two resolutions and an ordinance concerning the Water/Wastewater Department at their regular meeting in March.
Sewer rates will increase $1.50 for the first 1,000 gallons following the council’s approval of the increase, which was discussed over several months and through two public hearings.
“It would be nice to go back,” Ken Hayes, water/wastewater superintendent said of rising prices. “Everything goes up.
Hayes, comparing costs of other sewer departments throughout the region, said some other small municipalities have industries that help pay the costs. “Our residents take care of 85 percent ofthe costs.”
Along with the wastewater department needs, council members approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to apply for a Clean Water Revolving Loan.
“It’s just a process. It’s basically getting in line for the money,” Mayor Jackie Crabtree said.
“We’re trying to put this off aslong as we can. We’ve been out of compliance for a year and a half,” Hayes said of ammonia levels.
“The problem goes away during the summer. It’s the design of the plant.”
“If by chance we could come up with a way to resolve the ammonia issue, we can handle the phosphorous. Then you’ve got the capacity issue. We’re not there, but we’re not too far off. Our objective is to stay in compliance, but put this thing off as far as we can,” Hayes said.
Council members also discussed an amendment to the fireworks ordinance, but took no action on it. They agreed to combine their ideas and work on it again. Council member Jack Kelly suggested the issue be taken to the voters.
In other business, the council:
◊Appointed Matthew R. Powers to the Planning Commission;
◊Approved the purchase of two cars for the Police Department;
◊Tabled action on a new fireworks ordinance; and
◊Approved a resolution of intent regarding the wastewater treatment system improvement project, which is a requirement of the Internal Revenue Service, according to city attorney Howard Slinkard.
News, Pages 1 on 03/30/2011