February 2, 2016

Sunday I spent a large portion of my day reading over the MS4 requirements and the Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Technical manual.  I feel like I have a fairly decent understanding of the program and its objectives.  I contacted the Westmoreland County District because I want to gain a better idea of the Borough's role in the over-all water quality of the area.  From the experience that I have had working with EPA and State Government Regulatory Agencies, I was surprised that regulators would target a 1.1 Sq.mile Borough with a population just north of 2,000 for a MS4 permit.  I am getting a better understanding but still have some field work to do before developing a complete understanding.  I truly hope that fellow council members use me on the aspects of the MS4 permit that their committee overseas.  In any event I may get an opportunity to work with the District and possibly helping with the County Ordinance even if Delmont Council doesn't want to utilize me in this area.

We had our first Sewer committee meeting/  One of the big concerns for Delmont is storm water infiltration and the possibility of overflow at the pump station.  Regulatory agencies frown at over-flow and could take action.  However, as a community we have been improving and we are continuing to look for more ways to improve.  One of the big problems is there has not been enough education about using our sewers more effectively.  Sewer education my sound dirty and boring.  However, it can save you money personally as well as the Borough money.  If you aren't interested in saving the Borough money, please remember that Borough money is actually your money funneled a different way.  I will be putting together information on our sewer system and scheduling a public gathering.  I will try to use the Library or the Borough meeting room.  The meeting is probably 30-60 days out as I asked our Public Works department to gather some photos of the issues that are pressing to our system.

Please remember that next Tuesday, February 9th is the next council meeting.  The new meeting room is bigger than our old room.  Looking forward to seeing you there.