Bath Council asks U.S. Silica for help

At a Monday morning meeting about the water project, Bath Town Council members decided to seek assistance from U.S. Silica on upgrades to the town-owned water system.

Mayor Susan Webster said U.S. Silica added another work shift recently, causing water usage at the plant to go up dramatically.

"U.S. Silica used about half a million more gallons of water last month," Councilman David Crosby said.

Water Works Manager Kevin Hancock is proposing an upgrade to the town's water filtration system. The work is needed to ensure that the water going through the system is filtered properly. Hancock estimates the upgrade will cost $35,000.

"U.S Silica needs good clear water to process their sand. I feel they should help out," Webster said.

Water project

Project Inspector Brian Martin reported that 83% of

the project has been completed. Work will proceed this week

on Williams Street and crews will continue patching with asphalt around town.

Council is reviewing three quotes from subcontractors who are bidding to fix leaking water valves on the old water lines. Once the new lines are completely installed, the old lines must be shut off.

Fixing the valves is not part of the contract with Cowgirl Up. Specialized equipment is needed to replace the old valves, which are still under pressure. Estimates for the work start at $55,000.

One suggestion from Martin is to look into buying the necessary equipment and letting Water Works fix the valves. Then the equipment would be on hand for the future.

The equipment cost is $45,000 plus the cost of training Water Works employees to use it. The town would also have to pay outside help for digging and flagging of traffic.

Whether the council chooses to pay a subcontractor or buy the equipment, there is enough money in the water project contingency funds to cover the costs.