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LEWISTOWN -- An ongoing issue concerning the borough's sanitary lines, which dates back several decades, may soon see significant progress after Wednesday's Lewistown Borough Council meeting.
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) directed Corrective Action Plan for the Infiltration and Inflow of Lewistown Borough's sanitary lines is under review. This issue, which has roots extending to before January 2015, holds significant implications for the Borough's future growth and development.
At the heart of this issue is the Infiltration and Inflow, a condition where groundwater and stormwater infiltrate sanitary sewer systems. This can lead to a range of problems, from the inefficient operation of the sewer system to the potential for untreated wastewater discharges, which can have environmental implications.
The current review process also involves a re-examination of the 1982 Intermunicipal Agreement. While the specific details of this agreement are intricate, its significance lies in its potential impact on the Borough's sewer system. The outcome of this review could pave the way for lifting a longstanding moratorium on adding new sewer customers in Lewistown Borough.
For residents and potential developers, lifting this moratorium could be monumental. It signifies a resolution to a longstanding infrastructure problem and opens the door for expansion. New developments, both residential and commercial, have been constrained by this moratorium. Its potential lifting could usher in a wave of growth and opportunities for the Borough.
The current Corrective Action Plan, implemented in January 2015, was designed to address these Infiltration and Inflow issues. However, the challenges have persisted, requiring further action and review. The Borough, in collaboration with the solicitor, the Borough Engineer, and staff, are working hard to ensure the action plan is comprehensive and effective.
A significant upcoming event is a phone discussion scheduled with legal representatives next week. While the exact agenda of this discussion is yet to be disclosed, it's expected to revolve around the DEP-directed Corrective Action Plan, the 1982 Intermunicipal Agreement, and the future of the Borough's sewer system.
Apart from its technical and infrastructural aspects, this issue also carries financial implications. Like all public utilities, the Borough's sewer system requires funding for its maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. Addressing the Infiltration and Inflow problems and potentially lifting the moratorium could have budgetary consequences, which the borough council will need to navigate.
In other news:
• The Council is still waiting for the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to meet to review grant applications. It has been delayed two meetings. Nov. 21 is the next scheduled meeting;
• The Council is considering dissolving the Parking Authority and the Streets Committee and forming the Streets/Parking Board to address the streets and parking borough-wide as a team. This will be discussed at the Nov. 9 Council meeting;
• In order to sell the lot at 22 Ridge Road, the Borough will need it appraised;
• Interviews are beginning next week for the open Clerk/Secretary position;
• The Finance Committee/Streets Committee recommended the draft Wages Resolution be briefed to the Council for approval. This reflects a 3% raise in the AFSCME contract;
• The Council approved paying the CDBG Southside ADA Ramp project at $179,100;
• The Council appointed Shelby Liebegott to the Mifflin County Library Board of Directors;
• Approved the termination of an employee;
• Authorized the advertisement for the sale of borough equipment;
• The current sludge contract is expiring, and the new contract is raising their rates by up to 50%. The Borough is looking for a cheaper vendor;
• Healthcare costs are increasing, and the Council is researching options and quotes. The current provider increased costs by 18.7% for 2024;.
• Municipal Hall is closed on Nov. 24;
• Municipal Hall will close at noon on Dec. 22;
• The Refuse office is closed on Oct. 20-25;
• The 2nd Annual Town Hall meeting in the Community Center is scheduled for Jan. 24 at 6 p.m.;
• Upcoming events: Trunk or Treat, Oct. 21; Halloween parade, Oct. 25; Safe Night, Oct. 27;, and Trick or Treat, Oct. 31;
• The annual Festival of Ice will run Nov. 30-Dec. 1.