Parksley council hears wastewater troubles, backhoe repair may force outside contractors

Public Works Director Danny Siegert told the Parksley Town Council on Feb. 10 that crews have taken steps to stabilize the wastewater treatment system but the town still faces equipment needs that could limit operations and new development.

Siegert said a mixer in the treatment system had been wired backwards when it was rebuilt in the past and is now operating correctly. He reported the tank was pumped out, mixed liquor was brought in from another source and chemicals were ordered to reduce sludge.

Siegert also said the town’s backhoe is broken and repair estimates of $7,000 to $8,000 make replacement more likely. He warned that, without a working backhoe, the town would need to call external contractors to respond to water-main breaks and other maintenance emergencies.

Council members linked sewer capacity and equipment reliability to economic development prospects. Councilman Frank Russell said some prospective businesses have been deterred by sewer limitations. Siegert said whether a new business can tie to town sewer depends on the proposed use and whether the developer will pay for a private system.

No formal funding decision was made at the meeting; council members discussed looking for non-tax revenue streams and agreed a long-term capital plan will be necessary if the town is to replace aging equipment.