Workers from Mason Engineering and Construction, Fort Wayne, worked to pour the concrete floor of the newest final clarifier tank at the Cromwell location. Engineer Brian Houghton estimated six to seven concrete trucks would be bringing concrete for the pour of the floor and side wall. (Photo by Chelsea Los)
CROMWELL — The progress for Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District’s S.W.A.P (South Shore Waco Drive Area Project) is finally tangible, and the board heard plenty of updates reassuring the project’s completion schedule during the regular monthly meeting held Monday, Nov. 16, in Cromwell.
The new metal roof has been installed almost to completion, and six or seven concrete trucks were on site Tuesday, Nov. 17, pouring the concrete slab for the newest clarifier tank. The wastewater treatment plant pump station is also getting closer to fruition.
District Superintendent Timothy Woodward said water plant clean-up is going well thanks to the new chainsaw the district purchased last month. Woodward noted pipes have been winterized in preparation for colder months, with a new blower installation completed, as well. The district was able to provide some assistance to another sewer district in Syracuse, who needed help due to an equipment issue. “I helped (the district) as much as I could without putting us in a bind,” added Woodward. Lastly, Woodward said the work being done at the Cromwell location is “pretty impressive,” and added, “It’s gonna be a nice plant.” Both Woodward and Jones and Henry project engineer Brian Houghton were happy to note the project is running ahead of schedule.
Board President Rex Heil reminded the board and district employees of the vacancy left by Jim Evans’ resignation. Again, Heil asked the board for suggestions. Board member Robert Dumford presented one nomination, Jim Boone, as his official recommendation. “You do a fantastic job and let me tell you, your recommendation means a lot,” said Heil to Dumford. Boone met with Woodward recently, and Woodward added his assessment to the discussion. “I was really impressed with his knowledge of what we do.” The board agreed to pass on the recommendation, and invited Boone (through Dumford) to attend a Friday, Nov. 20, lunch meeting.
The board tabled an important discussion until the December meeting, because, as attorney James Flecker stated, “You’re making a motion on funds you don’t yet have.” Since the board has closed on all but one bond, the district now has the option to pay back some of their own funds that were used when starting the project. During the course of the discussion, the board couldn’t decide whether to use the money for operations and management, or invest it into a CD. Dumford noted the penalty incurred if the board is forced to cash in the CD may be of some consequence in the decision.
The board tabled that discussion based on the suggestion of Flecker. It is expected to be discussed at the next regular meeting, scheduled for Monday, Dec. 21. Monthly meetings are held at 7 p.m. at the Cromwell office, located at 4852 N. 1200W. For more information, visit the district’s website.
Related Articles: