NEWELL-The City of Newell monitored local drinking water for possible contaminants during 2023. The report presented to the town’s commissioners was a snapshot of the water quality.
There are 615 customers served with the town’s water source using an average of 70,000 gallons of water per day. The water is groundwater that is produced through local wells.
In order that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations which limit the number of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Detected contaminants in the Newell water during the 2023 calendar year does not necessarily indicate the poses any health risks. The same households in Newell are tested every year. Lead and copper are tested every three years.
Copper levels were for to be 0.1 ppm. The highest level allowed is 1.3 ppm. Lead levels were found to be 1 ppb, while the highest level allowed is 15 ppb. The range for Barium levels were .015 to .009, the highest level allowed is 2 ppm. Fluoride levels were also low with a range of .99 to 1.45, with a highest level allowed of 4 ppm. Most of the levels are caused by corrosion of household plumbing systems, erosion of natural deposits etc.
The commissioners voted to remove the water meter surcharge of $3.26 and then to increase the base water rate to $21.01 from $17.75. A roll call vote was taken with all commissioners voting aye.
A building permit was given to Mark Laulen & Karena Thompson for a fence on Lot 1, Block 50.
Also, Russ Janssen was given a building permit for a pole barn on Block 84. Janssen will purchase a 20 ft culvert with the city installing the culvert.
The commissioners approved a Tractor Pull Fun Day tentatively scheduled for some time in June. Jessica Gatzke informed the commissioners that their organization would take care of any prep needed for the event.
Mayor Ken Wetz was given authorization to sign a resolution on behalf of the City of Newell with the National Parks Service for a grant that will aid financing the Newell Rodeo Grounds Grandstands. The City of Newell will provide a minimum of 50% of the total cost of the project and assume all responsibility in the operation and maintenance of the project. The Newell Community Club will contribute the money raised by the organization to add to the City’s portion.
Verl Tifft was hired as City Foreman at $20 per hour. A notice will be posted to advertise for the position Tifft has vacated.
Bev Eide was approved as a new Museum Board member until 2026.
During a Special Board meeting, the commissioners canvased the votes from the April 9 Mayoral Election. The results are as follows: Tara Tennis 109, Kenneth Wetz 56. Tennis will take the Mayor’s seat May 13 for three years.
The next meeting will be May 13 at 5 p.m. in the City Offices on Third Street.
