What’s the latest progress on the ‘sewer smell’ in Lexington?
LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) — Lexington councilmembers say they’re still working to resolve that “sewer smell” across parts of the city.
In a Facebook post, 12th district councilmember Kathy Plomin said Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government’s Division of Water Quality has found the underperforming equipment they believe is causing the foul odor.
The division is working on getting the equipment upgraded but because it’s a “large purchase,” LFUCG put it out to bid. Proposals are due by Jan. 11 and “should be” approved by Feb. 15.
In the meantime, the division is looking into how odor-fixing chemicals are being added.
Employees also replaced an odor scrubber at the West Hickman water treatment plant last week.
Plomin added the division is working on a short-term solution: implementing odor-absorption chemistry that had worked in other plants in the state that experienced a similar issue.
On Nov. 17, the city hired Webster Environmental Associates, a Louisville company, after an emergency declaration was signed by Mayor Linda Gorton.
“The escalating air quality complaints require an aggressive response,” Gorton said. “We are going outside our normal procurement policies because of the emergency that exists. As of today, Webster is on board.”
The contract is for $75,000.
