NC0085812_NOV-2021-LV-0088 Response_20210315

ounty
March 15, 2021
Department of Public Works
Water/Wastewater Division
4600 Goldmine Road
Monroe, NC 28110
T. 704-289-1434
F. 704-289-7395
www.unioncountync.gov
W. Corey Basinger,
Regional Supervisor
NCDEQ
610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301
Mooresville, NC 28115
Dear Mr. B ,in,
RECEIVED/NCDEQ/DWP
nP. 9
WQROS
MOORESVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
This letter is in response to NOV-2021-LV-0088, and notice of civil penalty in reference to the
exceedance in monthly flow that was experienced at our Grassy Branch WRF in December
2020. This exceedance was a result of multiple rain events in the system (3.6" for the month)
as well as the capacity issues we have discussed in previous conversations.
In our meeting on 05/02/2019, we detailed our efforts in reducing the I&I that is entering the
Grassy Branch collection system. Since that meeting our Collections team has continued
working to improve the system. Such efforts include:
• Smoke testing
• Camera work and jetting
• Visual inspections during rain events
• Manhole rehab
• Micro -metering
In addition to the I&I reduction, we are in the process of obtaining a SOC agreement with
NCDEQ and Union County in order to expand the plant. This will allow us to better address the
capacity of the WRF to treat the flows. It is our understanding that enforcement costs will be
assessed at the time of the issuance of the SOC, and that any civil penalties will be held in
abeyance pending completion of the SOC requirements.
We intend to continue our efforts finding and reducing the I&I in the Grassy Branch basin even
as we address the treatment/capacity issues at the Grassy Branch WRF. If you have any
questions or concerns please contact me at 704-296-4215.
Sincerely,
Andrew Neff, PE
Water & Wastewater Division Director