Dear Mr. Mayor,
Since well # 2 has been shut down, the City has decided to build a temporary facility at well #2, which can be operational by June. Later, the temporary container will then become part of the permanent facility.
The City needs to pursue obtaining an Environmental Service Agreement with the Air National Guard immediately, before constructing a permanent facility for Wells 1 & 2 at cost of $6.7 million.
The City should either seek a legal opinion, or clarification in writing from the Air Force that actions taken by the City to provide clean drinking water; will not adversely affect the Air Force’s decision whether or not to pay for clean up or filtration, or its ability to reimburse the City for work done at either Wells 1 and 2, or Wells 7 and 8.
This should not take long and or affect any of the actions the City would be taking over the next 15 months.
Residents need to call and write local officials, and our Congressional delegation to pursue obtaining an Environmental Service Agreement with the Air Force.
Richard Neal, U.S. Representative, 300 State St, Suite 200 (413)-785-0325
Elizabeth Warren. U.S. Senator, 1550 Main Street, Suite 406 (413) 788-2690
Edward Markey, U.S. Senator, 1550 Main Street, 4th Floor (413) 785-4610
The city still has $4.2 million dollars from the previous bond. May I suggest the Council could move on a bond in the neighborhood of $7 million dollars, that would not include the permanent facility at Wells 1 and 2, at this time. This would provide sufficient funds for the following projects, and keep wells 1 and 2 separate from any adverse decision by the Air Force, while an understanding is being sought from the Air Force.
To construct the temporary facility at well #2, that would supply about 1.5 million gallons a day to the north side. $2 million to complete treatment facility at wells 7 & 8 which would provide 1.8 million gallons a day for the north side. $1.3 million for connector to Springfield Water system that would provide 1 million gallons a day as a backup, to the south and west, and ensure the University with water. $460,000 for repairs for 3 water storage tanks. $2.7 million to replace the East Mountain water storage tank.
The City will still retain its ability to bond for a permanent facility at Wells 1 and 2 as is deemed timely and prudent.
Dan Allie
Westfield At-Large City Councilor
