Creston Waterworks seeing results of dry conditions

With Creston and Union County experiencing a dry summer, Creston Waterworks Board is monitoring the conditions although the water supply is not at risk.

During the board’s meeting Tuesday, General Manager Steve Guthrie said there have been multiple water main breaks, most noticeably on North Division and North Cherry streets. Under lengthy dry spells, it is common for the ground to contract forcing the water pipes to shift and potentially break. There have been six breaks in the past two months. A break occurred daily from Aug. 5-7.

Guthrie said there have been some mechanical changes in water operations that may have contributed to the breaks, but still blames the dry conditions.

“Cherry Street and Division really need some attention. We will have to be looking at project on those streets, eventually,” he said.

Guthrie said water level at Three Mile Lake and 12 Mile Lakes has dropped. The decreases have not reached a point where conservation efforts should be used. Noting historical records, Guthrie said the dry summer of 2012 was worse. If the drought continues before winter, Guthrie said the amount of snow will be a factor for water supplies in spring 2023.

In other water news:

Bid letting for the Maple Street project is expected Aug. 31.

An account holder in the 500 block of West Mills was approved to have a payment arrangement for his bill. The account holder stated a water heater break went unnoticed for a length of time. Guthrie said all of the criteria was met for consideration of a payment plan. The account holder must keep his monthly bill current plus pay an additional $122 a month and will be in good standing.

The board approved a payment of $354,408 for ongoing work at 12 Mile Lake.

Board approved an increase to $250 for employees to purchase work boots. Guthrie said the established $150 was not enough to pay for a pair of boots adequate for duties that include exposure to various chemicals, dirt and mud. Employees are allowed to purchase one pair of boots in a 12-month timeframe. It is common for employees to purchase boots once in a year.