RE: For Discussion - Filter Bypassing

From: Andy Peters

Sent: Wed Nov 07 12:53:47 2018

To: Gerald Fisher

Subject: RE: For Discussion - Filter Bypassing

Importance: Normal

Understood. Until we solve this, we’ll make sure to not bypass the filters or CCB.

Andy Peters

City of Molalla

Public Works Operations Supervisor

(503) 829-6855 x220

Cell: 503-793-0507

apeters@cityofmolalla.com

117 N Molalla Ave

Molalla, OR 97038

From: Gerald Fisher

Sent: Wednesday, November 7, 2018 12:03 PM

To: Andy Peters <apeters@cityofmolalla.com>

Subject: RE: For Discussion - Filter Bypassing

Shoot me the draft of the SOP when you have it done. There is risk in bypassing the filters and this needs to be looked at carefully. It should only be used as part of an approved SOP or emergency measure when we are trying to get rid of water quickly. We already discussed options related to freezing but will have to chew on this one for a bit.

Regards,

Gerald Fisher, P.E. | Public Works Director

City of Molalla

117 N Molalla Ave. | PO Box 248 |Molalla, OR 97038

Office: 503.829.6855 | Direct: 503.759.0218

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From: Andy Peters <apeters@cityofmolalla.com>

Sent: Tuesday, November 06, 2018 1:30 PM

To: Gerald Fisher <gfisher@cityofmolalla.com>

Subject: For Discussion - Filter Bypassing

Gerald I went by the wwtp today and the Operators were discharging to the River by bypassing the filters and Chlorine Contact Basin. We had a discussion about weather that was okay. In the end, I had them turn the filters and CCB back up until we can get that plant configuration approved.

There is nothing specifically in the documents that state we can run that way. However, I do know that in the winter it’s virtually impossible to NOT bypass the filters. We do get some distinct advantages:

1. No freezing issues
2. Zero callouts related to either filters or CCB
3. Reduced wear and tear on the equipment
4. No loss of filter media

On the other hand, on a day like this where it’s sunny and 60 degrees it’s going to be pretty hard to look at our opponents in the eye and say we are making the best water the plant is capable of. Also if we make a mistake and have a BOD violation or something while bypassing the filters we are going to look pretty dumb. Jake insists there is no danger of that. I’m not totally convinced.

I think we should allow it, but only if the temperatures drop below a certain range justifying it. I wanted to get your thoughts/wishes on this issue, and once I do I’ll write up an Winter Filter Bypass SOP, telling the operators how to handle it.