Today, I read in the newspaper that the county is buying $3,500 grinder pumps for each of three homes in the Ocean Beach Estates. It's great news for each of the families and environmentally for all of us.

The article seemed to imply that the pumps will be owned by the homeowners, but that is probably not the case since public equipment can't be given to individuals. Nevertheless, the question should be answered.

I understood that the local Regional Waste Water pump station also has a grinder pump, and the homes in the nearby neighborhoods that are hooked to it don't. Wouldn't it be more efficient and economical in the long run to design the system with fewer grinder pumps which have the capacity to take in new homes as they are developed? But I suppose that would delay the solution, or would it? Also, what about the State or County suing the developers for point source pollution to recover the public money spent to clean of the mess they created?


By Al Pettigrew

Proposal Like Gulfhills, WJCUD

I received the following response today from Supervisor John McKay,

The grinder pumps will be furnished to all homes connected to the system. It is estimated that the cost of the pump, and installation will cost about $3,500.00 if paid for by the individual. We believe that by having a contract for the whole area the actual cost to the corps of engineer program will be much less. Only the bid process will tell what the actual cost will be. The pumps will become the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain when installed. This is the exact same program that has been followed in Gulfhills or west Jackson County Utility District,and also in the Helena sewer area that we are now installing a sewer system. This is a corps of engineer program. It is over seen by the corps in detail, so I have to believe that it is very legal to follow their direction in how the program is operated and what it can and can not furnish.

Thanks,

John



By Al Pettigrew