New way to treat for algae sought
Staff writer
Hillsboro is exploring its options for a new water treatment system that would better deal with blue-green algae toxins from Marion Reservoir.
The city has received quotes for a chlorine dioxide injection system, city administrator Matt Stiles told city council members Tuesday. The system would treat organic iron and manganese caused by the algae.
Stiles didn’t tell council members the cost of the system, which might be paid for by a federal grant available through Kansas Department of Health and Environment. He said he asked KDHE for permission to install the system immediately.
An ordinance passed by the council Tuesday restricts parking by semis on city streets to no longer than 45 minutes. It also limits operation of truck refrigeration units to no longer than 45 minutes in any 24-hour period.
With some reluctance, council members voted to spend $9,698 for a roof repair expected to extend the life of the police department building for two to four years.
Mayor Lou Thurston said that every time he thought about spending money on the roof, it was like fingernails on a chalkboard.
“In the latest round of rains, the police department had issues with roof leaks again,” Stiles said.
The work will include installation of a new metal roof with enclosed soffits.
Council members took an early look at a proposed — but not completed — budget projections.
Most of Stiles’ projections are level with last year, but he said the council would have to change some line items.
“Right now we’ve exceeded the fuel budget for trash service for the year,” he said.
Budgets for commodities will need to be increased because of rising prices, Stiles said.
He plans to have a full budget draft for the council’s July 5 meeting.
“We’ll have a lot better projections in July,” he said.
The city has launched a new web page designed by Civic Plus, the same company that designed web pages for the county and the city of Marion. Its appearance is similar to those web pages.