Melt-off straining city's infrastructure

SANDPOINT — Property owners need not worry about flooding damage just yet, but the snow melt-off is still putting its strain on city infrastructure.

According to Public Works Director Kody Van Dyk, the sewer system is bearing a much heavier burden, taking in 9 million gallons a day as opposed to the average of 1 to 2 million.

“That in-flow is infiltrating the sewer system,” Van Dyk said. “It’s giving us a challenge to meet our permit.”

In compliance with Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, the city of Sandpoint operates its sewer system under a permit that sets rules for operation. In order to run off the water within the system, it first needs to be treated for factors like chlorine content to ensure environmental friendliness, Van Dyk said.

But with the huge volume flowing through the system due to melt-off — about four times normal — city employees have their work cut out for them.

“We haven’t violated our permit yet, and we don’t expect to,” he said. “We’re working hard to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

Despite the large amounts of standing water from melt-off, Van Dyk said that there currently isn’t danger of flooding. In an effort to keep the city easily navigable, he recommends that residents clear obstructions away from the storm drains.

“We can’t always clear away storm drains, and when individuals remove obstructions, it’s a huge help,” Van Dyk said. “Otherwise, give us a call, so at least we’ll know about it.”