BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
KERMIT — A $1.24 million project to replace Kermit’s failing water storage tank is moving toward construction, with bidding expected later this summer and work likely extending into next year, Mayor Charles Sparks announced June 8 during a town council meeting.
The project will replace an aging tank with a new 125,000-gallon water storage tank, funded through an Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) grant that the state awarded in January.
Sparks said town officials met with state representatives in Charleston last month to discuss the project and its timeline.
“Should be July when everything is said and done,” he said. “And it should be August when everything is bid out. It will probably be next year before the project is done, but everything is moving well.”
The project comes as Kermit water customers prepare for a rate increase approved by state regulators. Beginning in July, the minimum monthly bill for up to 3,000 gallons of water will increase from $32.70 to $39.24. Customers will first see the increase reflected on bills issued in August.
“Based on 500 customers, with 400 paying, this [rate] should produce $6,000 a month,” Sparks said.
In other water-related business, the council approved a drawdown for the ongoing water treatment plant and raw water intake rehabilitation project. The payment includes $88,799 to Orders Construction and $21,775 to the Region 2 Planning and Development Council.
Council members also discussed continuing sewer system problems caused by collapsed sewer lines beneath railroad tracks. The issue has forced the town to contract for sewage pumping services while officials seek a permanent solution.
According to Sparks, Kermit has spent approximately $20,000 on pumping over the past year.
The council also considered a request from Mingo County election officials to relocate the Marrowbone voting precinct to the former Kermit gymnasium for the next election. After discussion, council members agreed to allow use of the facility if county officials and Marrowbone residents are unable to find a more convenient location within the Marrowbone community.
Council members additionally finalized plans for the town’s Independence Day celebration July 4 at Kermit Park. Vendors are welcome and may begin setting up at 5 p.m., Sparks said. The town will provide free watermelon throughout the evening, and fireworks will begin after dark.