Planning continues for new water treatment plant

Planning continues on construction of a new $10 million water treatment plant to serve a large part of Union County.

The Anna-Jonesboro Water Commission has authorized its engineer to conduct preliminary studies for construction of the new plant to be located in the general vicinity of the existing plant southwest of Jonesboro.

The commission is in the process of acquiring property for the new plant. The engineer recommended staying near the present plant to avoid costly pipeline extension.

The existing treatment plant was constructed in the 1960s and now faces problems finding parts to maintain equipment, some of which has been in operation for more than 40 years.

Renovation of the existing facility was initially considered but later ruled out because of difficulty obtaining additional property from the U.S. Forest Service, cost of financing renovation and concerns about maintaining adequate water production during the renovation project.

Cost of renovation was estimated at about $4 million. But the lifespan of a renovated plant was placed at only ten years, compared to 40 years for a new facility.

Financing a new plant through grants and a low interest Rural Development loan will add about $1.20 per 1,000 gallons to the charge to the commission's customers. Renovation cost was estimated at about $1.05.

Anna-Jonesboro Water Commission was formed in the 1960s by the cities of Anna and Jonesboro to meet the water treatment needs of the two communities.

Since  then Shawnee Valley and Lick Creek water districts have been added, as well as Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center and the Illinois Veterans Home at Anna.

All AJWC customers maintain their own distribution systems and billing for their customers. The commission is responsible only for providing treated water.

Members of the commission are Brad Rendleman, appointed by the Union County Board of Commissioners; Jim West, appointed by the City of Jonesboro; and Steve Guined, appointed by the City of Anna.

Ed Earnhart is the plant superintendent. Matella Tucker is the commission's clerk.