Current Status: The wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and its lift station are currently operating at 100% of normal daily flow, on portable generator power. In HCMUD 136 we’re asking for moderation but advising folks to carry on normally unless asked to do otherwise. Reducing sewer usage while it’s it raining is especially helpful.
Attendees: Directors of most of the 6 participant MUD districts, Jackrabbit (JRPUD) directors, engineers, and operators, four of our HCMUD 136 directors and a few residents (approximately 30 people total)
Recovery: A significant step forward will happen when the plant switches from generator power to power from CenterPoint in the next week or 2. At such time more of the equipment can be tested and placed back into service. Parts have been ordered but there is heavy demand for electrical system parts due to the various communities impacted by storms throughout the US. JRPUD has filed insurance claims for losses, rentals, etc. to both FEMA and its insurance agency.
Communication: JRPUD is relying on participant MUD districts to convey information to their residents and businesses. JRPUD has a limited email capacity (via its attorney and operator primarily), no website (or plans to develop one), and no discernible presence on social media. Communication was admitted to be a significant problem post-Harvey, and this is being termed a “learning experience” by JRPUD.
Local Sewers: HCMUD 136’s lift stations are not property of JRPUD and operate independently, sending flow to the plant. Therefore should any potential backup situation develop, people should contact the MUD operator or directors. Efforts by HCMUD 136 have helped greatly to avoid a sewage backup situation.
Future Improvements: The WWTP facility is almost 50 years old. It was built with the 100 year flood level in mind. Hurricane Harvey and the attendant flooding is considered a 500- to 10,000-year flood, depending who you ask. Any costs related to “hardening” or modifying the plant to make it less vulnerable to flooding MAY have to be subsidized by HCMUD 136.