Demand on treatment plant dropped by 40% following recent storms

The Village of Belgium’s recent efforts to identify and stop clear water from entering the wastewater treatment plant worked, plant superintendent Neil Anderson told the village’s Sewer and Water Committee.

Recent heavy rains that dumped several inches in a short time period resulted in only 590,000 gallons of water entering the plant, he said.

“Normally, we have one million gallons or more,” Anderson said. “It dropped 35% to 40%.”

Most of the clear water infiltration came from village or private laterals that have since been replaced, but a few homes had sump pumps or broken tiles that connected to the wastewater system, he said.

Those were disconnected and owners were warned they would have problems if they did not do something to divert the water that used to go to the plant, Public Works Director Dan Birenbaum said.

“After we televised it, we could see it was all clear water and told them there would be problems,” he said. “We provide a stormwater lateral and everyone should connect into the lateral.”

Anderson said the village met with the engineer and looked at each individual problem to suggest solutions.

“It may come down to a financial issue. Some people may know what needs to be done, but can’t afford it at this time,” said Trustee Robin Nierode, a member of the committee.

One house has clay pipes that are disintegrating under the foundation. The owner plans to hire a plumber to install a sump pump and connect it to the stormwater line.

“She isn’t happy about it, but I guess she realizes it has to be done,” Anderson said. “If it rains heavy again, there will be problems.”

He suggested the village televise sewer system laterals this year to prepare for the Main Street work to be done next year.

“I think people should know if there is a problem and what it will cost, so they can plan for it,” Anderson said. “We should start the televising and education process early.”

He suggested a meeting similar to the one held prior to the Liberty Street work be held this year to obtain permission to televise private laterals.