Mayor Linda Gorton signed an emergency contract today to hire Webster Environmental Associates Inc., a Louisville company, to assist the Lexington Division of Water Quality in addressing air quality complaints related to the wastewater treatment plants and the collection system.
“The escalating air quality complaints require an aggressive response,” Gorton said. “We are going outside our normal procurement policies because of the emergency that exists. As of today, Webster is on board.” The contract is for $75,000.
Webster will assist the Division in identifying the specific sources of the odors, checking for air leaks, and evaluating filters and testing existing conditions as needed, Gorton said. The company will identify needed improvements and assist in establishment of a broad, proactive approach to odor control.
Several factors may be contributing to the odor issues, including lack of rainfall. In addition, there is less stormwater in the sanitary sewer system because of repairs made to the system as part of the overhaul of the system designed to protect water quality.
