User survey first step in upgrading Glenfield's sewer system

GLENFIELD — Martinsburg town officials are considering upgrades to the Glenfield sewer system but first must garner customer income information to establish funding eligibility.

"It's extremely important to get a complete survey response from virtually all heads of household, both owners and renters, in the proposed service area," Martinsburg town Supervisor Terry J. Thisse said in a release.

Snow Belt Housing Co. Inc. late last week mailed income surveys to approximately 120 residential customers, said Cheryl L. Shenkle-O'Neill, Snow Belt's executive director.

"We're starting to get some in," she said.

Town officials are working with Watertown engineering firm Bernier, Carr & Associates on possible upgrades to the nearly 20-year-old system, Ms. Shenkle-O'Neill said.

"The plant is working OK," said Mickey G. Lehman of Bernier, Carr. "They don't have any consent order issues."

However, there is some pooling in the sand beds, the facility could use a new emergency generator and some portions of the sewer line are in need of replacement, Mr. Lehman said.

And, with the town planning to pay off soon remaining debt on the initial sewer project, it is a good time to consider a renovation project, he said.

While Bernier, Carr has yet to issue a final project report, the proposed upgrades would likely cost in the range of $700,000 to $800,000, Mr. Lehman said. Applications for funding likely won't be sent out until later this spring.

To qualify for the most favorable grant and loan terms, the survey first must be done.

Given the relatively small number of customers on the sewer system, the town will need "almost a 100 percent response" to satisfy state and federal funding program guidelines, Ms. Shenkle-O'Neill said.

The forms are anonymous to ensure confidentiality.