Areas of Concern Over Water Pipe Breaks Arise At BPW Meeting

A number of recent water pipe breaks have become an area of concern for the Holden Board of Pubic Works.

At the Wednesday, Sept. 4 meeting of the BPW, it was reported that what had originally been thought to be a seasonal related problem, has since been determined to be a water hammer issue caused by improper use of fire hydrants.

To help clarify the problem, board member Doug Hayworth detailed the situation. In his description, he said when there is a rush of water through the pipes, small air bubbles can be created, and when the flow is suddenly stopped these air pockets, or bubbles, can explode causing the pressure per square inch in the line to rise momentarily as high as 1000 PSI or more.

Board members Rob Hough and Kim Holger both expressed concern as to what can be done to address the issue, since it is a costly misstep that the BPW will have the burden of the full cost for. Holden Water Superintendent, Tony Lerda, said he will contact other department officials to address the problem.

In another piece of old business, Lerda told the board that a report regarding lead and copper is now close to being submitted. In addition, he noted Tucker Fletchall will be working one day per week, mainly handling administrative duties…

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