Members of the Bourbon Town Council were updated on the Water Plant Update Project.
Last week Council President Ward Byers said the water plant they are using was built in 1965. He said they are 20 years past its life expectancy.
The town approved an agreement with an engineering firm to begin the replacement process of the treatment facility which would include a new building, mechanics and computerization bringing it up to date. The new system would provide ample water to citizens and businesses now and in the future and provide ample fire protection for the community.
Ward Byers said he and Clerk Treasurer Kim Berger met with Wessler Engineering and representatives from Baker Tilly putting together a plan they will work throughout the remainder of this year and next year on the construction designs and financing of the water plant with the expectation of a groundbreaking in January 2023. The contract is for $280,000.
Bourbon applied for the first round of SWIF (State Water Infrastructure Fund) Grant but was not awarded. They have applied for a second round to assist with the financing of the water treatment plant through some very low interest state loans although the research is still ongoing with Baker Tilly and the engineering firm.
It has been estimated that the new plant could cost as much as $3 million.
