Water System Set For Upgrade At Syracuse

SYRACUSE - Officials were advised to begin planning an update for the town's water system.

Three years ago, the town installed a new liner in its main well on Dolin Drive and was told it would suffice until more expansion plans were outlined.

Larry Branstetter, a consultant with Ortman Drilling, told council members Tuesday that time has arrived.

The Dolin well was first used in 1928 and has extended about 25 years beyond the normal life expectancy, Branstetter said.

When that well can't meet current demand levels, another well kicks in, but provides unfiltered water, Branstetter said.

Dispensing unfiltered water isn't illegal or improper because it is previously treated. However, iron in the water provides a discolored appearance.

Branstetter suggested the town's two other wells be reconfigured so that all three could be used on a rotating basis and run through the filter system.

He said a range of options need to be explored. Those included consideration of a new well field, a new water tower and a new water plant.

"Time is slowly running out," Branstetter said.

Action could have been taken sooner, but the town ran into unexpected costs when repair to the existing water tower had to be made about one year ago.

Town officials agreed to resurrect a list of proposals mulled over a few years ago and consider future options.

In other matters:

• Council will conduct a preliminary session for the 1998 budget at 5 p.m. July 8.

• Officials will seek a clarification of design plans on Ind. 13 after the owner of the Wawasee Motel complained the current plan would eliminate all truck parking.

• Approved plans to split the cost of repairing a bridge on Main Street with Kosciusko County. The county commissioners have not yet acted on the proposal, which includes about $10,000 in repairs.

• The community building steering committee will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Syracuse Library with representatives of Dekko Foundation and Kosciusko County Foundation. Officials are trying to determine what level of funds might be available for construction of a community building. A location for the building has not been determined.