The City of Knox Wastewater Treatment Plant is getting quite a workout as a result of recent rains. Superintendent Kelly Clemons told the board of works they are processing an additional 500,000 gallons of water per day on average.
During dry weather the city treats 350,000 gallons of water each day. Lately that number has been up to 850,000. Clemons attributes the excess to residential sump pumps that are improperly tied into the city’s sewer system. City officials note the ordinance is difficult to enforce, as water will continue to back up in yards and drain back into homes unless it goes into the sewer system. They mentioned possibly charging a $25 per month additional fee to offset the expense, but did not take any formal action.
