NC0085812_NOV-2021-LV-0092 Response_20210415

Department of Public Works
Water/Wastewater Division
4600 Goldmine Road
Monroe, NC 28110
RECEIVED/NCDEQ/DWR
APR 2 3 2021
T. 704-289-1434 WQROS
MOORESVILLE REGIONAL OFFICE
F. 704-289-7395
www.unioncountync.gov
April 15, 2021
W. Corey Basinger,
Regional Supervisor
NCDEQ
610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301
Mooresville, NC 28115
Dear Mr. Basinger,
This letter is in response to NOV-2021-LV-0092, outlining the exceedance in monthly flow that
was experienced at our Grassy Branch WRF in March 2021. This exceedance was a result of
multiple rain events in the system (3.3" 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 l&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

Cc: Hyong Yi, Public Works Administrator
Josh Brooks, Asst. Div. Director, Water & Wastewater
Bart Farmer, WRF Superintendent
Greg Morgan, Utility Services Superintendent