By DIANE R. CHODAN
OBSERVER Staff Writer
CASSADAGA - Consulting engineer Kevin Castro was sent back to the drawing board, or to his company's filing cabinet, to modify the plans for the water treatment building including the water lines.
Article Photos
OBSERVER Photo by Diane R. Chodan
Kevin Castro, from the engineering firm overseeing Cassadaga’s water project, answers questions from the village board about the plans he presented for the water treatment building.
At the recent meeting of the Cassadaga Village Board, Castro brought the contract drawings for the board's review. He explained that the county health department and the state Department of Environmental Conservation have to approve the plans.
Thomas Fetter, street supervisor, was vocal about how the design had changed from plans submitted by former engineer, Bob Armstrong. He questioned the way that the lines looped. Another concern was placing the manhole separate from the building and the size of the opening.
"Do you make a manhole for fat guys?"Fetter asked.
"Why did it (the plans) change?" asked Trustee Ron DeChard.
Some of the differences had to do with the need to use a sequestering agent to remove metal from the water supply before the addition of chlorine. The agent and the chlorine cannot be added at the same time.
Fetter also stated his preference for asphalt and blacktop to be used around the well fence.
"That would last a long time and be more economical for the taxpayers," he said. Fetter also said he had millings which could be used which would save the village money.
Mayor LeeAnn Lazarony brought a concern about the "flushing" hydrants from a resident on whose property a hydrant is located. These hydrants do not look like fire hydrants; they are larger and green in color. According to the homeowner, the hydrants don't actually perform the function of flushing the water system, so they should be removed.
Castro took notes, left the plans with board members and Fetter, and asked for any other comments by Sept. 19.
The board is planning a special informational meeting concerning the fluoridation of the water supply on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m at the village offices. The board hopes that the public will attend to listen and to ask questions. The engineering firm will be represented to answer questions about how the fluoride is actually introduced into system but not to comment about the health aspects. Deputy Mayor Rodney Waite, who is a dentist, plans to discuss the scientific arguments about fluoride. The village is hoping that the county health department will be represented as well.
Comments on this article may be directed to dchodan@observertoday.com.
