JACKSON CITY COMMENTARY: WATER SYSTEM IS A TOP PRIORITY

Because of the increasing production and need, testing, and maintenance costs, operating and maintaining an efficient water distribution system is a high priority for the city of Jackson. One of the city's most useful tools in our ongoing maintenance program is our annual drinking water distribution system leak survey.

The Ccity implemented an annual drinking water system leak survey two years ago. We are scheduled to conduct our third survey this spring. The survey utilizes the latest computerized leak detection technology to pinpoint suspected leakage in the city's system.

The first year the leak survey was conducted, a total of seven system leaks were identified (3 water main leaks, 3 service line leaks and I valve leak). Repairing these leaks saved approximately 22 million gallons of water annually.

The second year eleven system leaks were found (I water main leak, 8 service line leaks and 2 valve leaks). The repair of these leaks saved approximately 27 million gallons of water annually.

Even the best maintained water systems will develop leaks. The city's goal is to minimize the opportunity for water leaks to develop and to repair them as soon as possible. This program has saved the city thousands of dollars over the past two years.

A new picnic shelter is scheduled to be constructed in Brookside Park later this year. The Park Board and City Council have approved the plans for this shelter and it will be put out for bids very soon. This shelter will be 24' x 46' and will be the first built in Brookside Park. The city of Jackson is very proud of its beautiful parks and this will be another fine addition to our overall program.

In Sept., 1998 our Parks and Recreation department held its first Senior Social at the American Legion Hall. The result has been to have a monthly senior social with a lot of dancing, refreshments and just plain fun. Crowds range from 40 to 70 in number and 50 to over 90 in age. Senior socials are held the fourth Wednesday of each month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the Jackson American Legion Hall. Everyone is welcome so come out and join in the fun.

The Ccity of Jackson will have its semi-annual clean up/ fix up week April 17-21. This popular program allows City residents to get rid of items that normally would not be picked up by our city refuse employees. Please take advantage of this program to help keep Jackson clean and tidy. This special pickup will occur on your normal day of refuse pickup during the week of April 17-21. For details call our Public Works office at 243-2300.

The council meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall in Jackson. Your ideas and suggestions are always welcome.