Michael J. Adams
On behalf of the Sweet Home Wastewater Sewer Utility, I would like to express my appreciation to the citizens of our city, as well as to those neighboring residents who have been affected, for their understanding regarding the ongoing odor issues we have been experiencing.
Your patience is very much appreciated and rest assured we intend to continue to research appropriate solutions in attempts to minimize odors as much as possible until we have the final long term solution in place, currently scheduled for early April of this year.
As information changes regarding this issue, we will do our best to provide notification and/or the appropriate information to you at that time. We understand and can appreciate the frustrations you have experienced and communicated to us (anonymously or otherwise).
We have experienced many of the same frustrations. Please know your communication with us is important and I trust that you will continue to do so. Some of you may be wondering “why is it taking so long to rectify the problem?” and/or “what are you doing to fix the issue?”
We have evaluated many options during this period of time and have decided that the best long-term alternative is to build and install a “filter” through which to pump the odiferous air.
Although the filter has since been installed and has been operating since March 6 of this year, a “cap” is also required to be built and placed over the tank from which the odor emanates.
This “cap” is currently scheduled for arrival and placement approximately the first week in April, and when installed and connected to the filter this should provide the desired outcome we all expect.
Although we will never be able to eliminate all the odors from the facility at all times, we continue to research “short-term” solutions also, solutions that require specific consideration, and occasional pre-approval from DEQ, before implementing as to not cause a violation of existing permits.
It is worth noting that anytime a change is made to our treatment process and/or facility the city is responsible to receive this pre-approval and to remain in full compliance with existing permit requirements.
Many times this can, as we have all experienced during the last year, place unexpected barriers and/or extended time frames much longer than anyone would desire.
I hope this information provides some level of clarification regarding this issue and as I indicated above, we will do our best to keep you updated.
Again, I appreciate your continued patience as we continue to research alternatives to minimize the odors and will trust the “cap” arrives and installed on-time.
Should you have any questions or would like to receive additional information regarding this or any other issues within the Public Works Department please feel free to contact me at 367-6243 ext 244 or e-mail [email protected]
Michael J. Adams is public works director for the city of Sweet Home.