Danville council approves funding for smoke testing to find I&I and buys utility truck to support in-house repairs

Town public-works staff reviewed responses to a request for qualifications for sanitary-sewer smoke testing aimed at identifying inflow and infiltration (I&I) and recommended selecting the mid-range proposal that met the specified manhole inspection scope (level 2 NASCO). Bids varied substantially: staff reported a low bid around $124,000, a mid bid around $171,000, and a high bid around $281,000.

Public works staff said the mid-level proposal most closely matched the town's scope and recommended staying with that level. "So with that being said, the lowest one we specked out a certain type of inspection on the manholes... I would still recommend that we stay with our level 2 NASCO inspection that we expect originally," the public works director said, explaining the reasoning.

The director warned smoke testing will be disruptive for some residents and will require active public outreach, but said the testing is necessary to avoid future rate increases and to prioritize repairs. Councilors discussed scope adjustments (removing newer lines in favor of flow monitoring) and public-notification plans. A council motion to spend funds for testing was made and approved 5-0.

Separately, staff presented an unplanned purchase of a used 2024 utility truck with a utility bed to improve crew efficiency and reduce reliance on contractors. Staff said the truck will allow crews to carry tools and respond faster to emergencies and routine repairs. After discussion about bed durability and salt exposure, the council approved the purchase by motion (vote 5-0).

Both items were presented as investments to improve long-term system reliability and operational efficiency.