Gainesboro water officials are concerned about current levels at the town’s water plant after a recent report revealed roughly 30 percent water loss.
Water Plant Manager Jerry Rhoten said the town’s water plant is not doing well, as the tanks currently have about 15 feet of water, but have not risen any higher. Rhoten said he is unsure what the town can do about the issue.
“At this point, we will just have to let it go for a little while and see what happens,” Rhoten said. “And if it warms up a little bit, you know, maybe, start valving a few off and see if that helps, you know, valve some sections off and see if that helps us any.”
Water Department Employee Joe Lynch said it only takes cutting off a valve for two hours to see if the tank levels rise. Rhoten said the town should have enough water for now, barring any emergencies.
“We are in pretty bad shape right now,” Rhoten said. “I mean, if we were to have a big house fire like we had, you know, on this one the other day, it would drain us. Hopefully, we don’t.”
Rhoten told the board that if he does not find any leaks after cutting off valves, the town may have to have someone walk the town’s waterlines to check for issues.
“We have not done that in a while anyway, and we need to do that every so often, too,” Rhoten said. “It’s about time to get somebody to do that anyway.”
Consulting Engineer Nathaniel Green said having someone walk the town’s lines would only cost a few thousand dollars. Mayor Lloyd Williams said Joe Richardson last walked the lines several years ago and did it for a fair price.
“Let’s go ahead and do that,” Williams said. “Call Joe (Richardson) and see if he can fit us in.”