The Mayor’s Corner 05/08/2019

Mayor Diana Thomas

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week. Remembering my own career in education, I know how busy the last few weeks of school are and the importance placed on the progress of all students. It is difficult for adults to stay focused as the weather gets nice, let alone our kids. Knowing this, I want to thank all teachers no matter the location for the time you put into educating our children. Your job is vital to the future of our country. You are appreciated.
Annual Fire Hydrant flushing season is here again. Hydrant flushing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 15 between the hours of 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. This flushing is important preventive maintenance that allows the Water Department to test hydrants for flow and operations. Should any repairs be needed, it is noted and the repairs are scheduled. This helps to ensure the hydrants are functioning well if needed.
By discharging large volumes of water through a fire hydrant, water flow within the pipeline is increased. This increased flow actually scours the inside of the pipeline, removing and transporting silt and mineral deposits out of the water system.
During and following the flushing process, it is common for a yellow, brown or reddish tint to appear in the water. This is a result of the harmless mineral deposits being flushed out of the system. If you see this discoloration, run the cold water taps only. Do not use hot water taps throughout your home at bathroom sinks, tubs, kitchen faucets et for 5 to 15 minutes or until the water clears to avoid the discolored water getting into the hot water system. If possible, refrain from using water while the hydrant is being flushed. This will help keep water discolored water from circulating through your household plumbing.
If after flushing your water, pressure or volume seems low, clean faucet screens to remove silt and mineral sediment that could be obstructing water flow. For more information, or if you experience water quality problems lasting more than four hours following hydrant flushing, contact the Water Department at 208-414-1775.
The Street Department will finish work on the ADA ramps on W. Main and W. Idaho this week and will be moving on to the alley clean up. This year they will begin on the West side of town and move east. Remember to leave yard debris away from the garbage cans along the alleys. If you do not have an alley, the debris can be left curbside for pick up. The crews will not be picking up garbage such as couches, tires, mattresses, etc. This pick up is for garden waste and yard debris. Progress will be made as weather and time allow over the next few weeks.
This Friday, May 10, is the Friends of Memorial Hospital Pie sale. Don’t forget to stop in to support our local hospital and buy some great pies. The sale begins at 10:00 am in the Conference Room of the hospital and runs until pies are gone.
AND- Don’t forget Sunday, May 12 is Mother’s Day. Make it special for all the ladies that have shared their love with others.