Hurley's new water mixer needs repairs

By RALPH ANSAMI

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Hurley — The water mixer that was installed in the city of Hurley’s tank on Germania Hill is not working.

The Hurley City Council learned Tuesday that a detached wire is apparently the cause of the problem.

The mixer was installed as part of a city infrastructure project to ensure that the water stays fresh.

Jeff Seamandel, of MSA Professional Services, the city’s’ engineering company, said the mixer is under warranty for one year after the project is “substantially complete” and that point has not yet been reached. He said the city wouldn’t be charged for repairs.

Seamandel said when the mixer is working, it can be heard outside of the water tank. He explained how the mixer works and council member Jamey Francis said he’d like to see a photo of the mixer.

Street superintendent Mark Bluse said Tuesday there have been two water leaks recently in the city.

The bigger water break was behind the high school football field, in a swampy area. The line was shut off and bypassed, pending better weather to get into the swamp for repairs.

The second, more recent break was in the area of the VFW building, involving a smaller discharge.

Bluse recommended to the council that two part-time employees be hired for his department. He has been without two workers recently because of a medical issues and a vacation.

Bluse said the effort to correct violations outlined by the Department of Natural Resources is progressing and requires extra attention. He said eight of 13 DNR violations cited have been addressed and cross connection deficiencies in residences and businesses are being corrected.

“We’ve made a lot of headway,” he said.

Seamandel warned the council that future infrastructure projects in the city could be costing a lot more because of the Trump administration’s tariffs. He said the cost of watermains and manholes could rise by 30 percent in the future because of steel tariffs that have been imposed.

In other business, the city council:

—Agreed to contribute $2,000 to the Hurley Area Little League.

—Approved $150 for Paavo Nurmi Marathon sponsorship.

—Approved a resolution on departments’ credit card use.