Organization of the Week - Water an Wastewater Department

Churchill County’s Water and Wastewater departments play a critical role in maintaining the infrastructure that delivers clean water and processes wastewater for county residents, while also planning for future facility improvements and equipment needs.

During February budget discussions, Public Works Planning and Building Director Randy Hines provided updates on ongoing water and wastewater projects, including construction of the golf course water treatment plant and long-term planning for repairs at the county’s wastewater treatment facility.

The county’s Water Department oversees the municipal water system, including treatment, distribution, infrastructure maintenance, and long-term planning for water facilities. The department also works with outside contractors and engineers to maintain operations and manage capital improvement projects.

Hines requested a $25,000 increase to cover service fees, explaining that the original budget amount had been underestimated and would fall short without the adjustment. He also reported that Phase 1 of the golf course water treatment plant project is about 70% complete and expected to be finished by August.

The Wastewater Department operates and maintains Churchill County’s sewer treatment facilities and related infrastructure. Staff are responsible for processing wastewater, maintaining treatment equipment, and ensuring the system meets operational and regulatory requirements.

The wastewater budget remains largely unchanged for the upcoming fiscal year. The only adjustment is an increase in fuel costs for a county-owned crane truck that now uses a county gas card.

Hines said the department is also developing a strategic plan to repair and replace aging equipment at the wastewater treatment plant. He noted the 18-year-old facility has several components that need replacement and that staff are compiling a list of critical spare parts and infrastructure needs.

Existing infrastructure and equipment budgets totaling about $160,000 for wastewater and $112,000 for water could be used to support those long-term maintenance efforts.