By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
Efforts to revamp Whitewater’s aging wastewater treatment facility are underway, as a $72,000 contract is awarded to a firm tasked with enhancing employees’ access within the plant.
The Common Council on Aug. 4 awarded a contract to M-Z Construction for the construction of so-called manways within the biodigester portion of the facility.
“The wastewater utility has one storage tank and two anaerobic digesters,” Wastewater Superintendent Tim Reel said. “Equipment necessary in these process operations require routine maintenance and, therefore, entry into each one of the noted tanks.”
In its current configuration, Reel said the process has proven challenging.
“This is virtually impossible to accomplish in a safe manner in the storage tank and quite cumbersome in the anaerobic digesters,” Reel added. “The installation of these manways will allow safe entry and ease of routine maintenance in all tanks.”
In other recent business, the council:
– Approved transferring a beer and liquor license to the owners of Spaiu, 162 W. Main St. The establishment is replacing Fratelli’s Restaurant.
– Approved a plan by the owners of 841 Brewhouse, 841 E. Milwaukee St., to host a fundraiser at the facility. The city will grant 841 Brewhouse a temporary amendment to its typical license.
The fundraiser will benefit a person with medical needs, and outdoor seating will be provided to accommodate festivities. It will be held from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6.
– Approved the second reading of an ordinance pertaining to displays of public art in the city’s downtown district.
