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CLYMER -- A consultant is recommending the Clymer Town Board undertake a $10.4 million upgrade of the town's water system. The system hasn't been updated since 1967.
Board members heard from Andrew Meyerhofer, an engineer with Barton and Loguidice, the firm hired to work on the project.
"Basically the town of Clymer owns and operates a water system that consists of one operational well, the well house, the water storage tank and about six and a quarter miles of distribution" Town Supervisor Brian Willink said. "All of it was basically built in 1967. Some of the proponents of the town's water system do not meet current health standards and are in need of significant rehab or replacement due to age related deficiencies."
The overall cost for the upgrades is an estimated $10.4 million. One option to avoid the upgrade is to consolidate with the town of Sherman, but Sherman is considered too far away despite having the nearest water source suitable for the project. That's why Meyerhofer said they recommend the upgrades.
Health Department violations listed for the current town water system include:
¯ only one water well is in use, with the second no longer in use because of high nitrate levels;
¯ there is no current security at the water tank;
¯ the overflow does not discharge to the correct location;
¯ the tank has rust spots;
¯ asbestos has been found in the water main, and
¯ there is low water pressure at spots on Clymer Hill Road.
Upgrades proposed include a new well, replacing the storage tank with a glass coating, bolted steel water tank and new water meters.
Meyerhofer discussed the next steps with the board, saying construction could take place in 2025 or 2026. Willink reminded the board that just because they held a public hearing does not necessarily mean they have to move forward with the project, but they would be looking into grants with the help of Barton and Loguidice.
In other news:
¯ Cindy Willink gave a presentation from the Clymer Historical Society, showing buildings around the town that have been moved over the years. The society also asked to be considered in the town's budget for next year.
¯ Willink said included in the veteran's memorial in front of the school was a stone for Ralph Holthouse. While Holthouse did multiple jobs and services for the town over the years, including serving as a Town Board member and town supervisor, he was never in the service. Willink moved the stone to the front of the windmill across from the school. Holthouse built the windmill years ago.
¯ The board is working on information technology upgrades, which includes a new computer, new email and an updated website.