Development News for Hinesville, Georgia

Water Tank Raising and Rehabilitation Project Approved

The City Council approved two contracts for the Public Works water tank raising and rehabilitation project. Pittsburgh Tank was awarded the contract for raising the tank, including adding legs and welding, for $396,825. Utilivision will handle the tank's rehab and coating for $238,500. The total cost for raising and rehabilitating the tank is $635,325. This project will increase the city's water storage capacity to 4.2 million gallons, aligning with the average daily pumping amount. While this brings current storage up to par, future growth may necessitate adding another tank. Raising the tank is expected to increase water pressure in certain zones, particularly around Public Works, and benefit the new pump system at Little Wissie. The tank will be coated white with blue lettering, matching the city's theme. Funding will come from the Water and Sewer Impact Fund.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Aeration System Purchase Approved

The City Council approved the purchase of four jet aeration systems from Flight, manufactured by Xylem, for the Hinesville Fort Stewart Wastewater Treatment Plan for $524,400. This equipment is needed to add aeration to the SBR tanks to meet effluent limits, particularly for ammonia, which is urgent for the summer permit compliance. This is the first phase of a three-phase project and is expected to cost approximately $1 million in total, including installation and electrical work. The project will be funded by water and sewer impact funds and will expand treatment capacity for future growth. The Fort Stewart plant is a joint-use facility, and the contract includes provisions for the City of Hinesville to receive a portion of the cost back from Fort Stewart based on their share of ownership and usage.

Public Works Water Tank Electrical Relocation Approved

The City Council approved a change order for Palm Coast Utilities to relocate electrical and shed facilities from under the Public Works water tank for $37,085.26, including a $7,500 contingency. This work is necessary before the water tank can be raised. The project aims to improve the functionality and safety of the Public Works area by moving essential services like the generator transfer switch, fueling station power, and garbage truck radio to exterior weatherproof panels. Additionally, emergency power will be extended to the fueling system. The funding for this change order will come from the Water and Sewer Impact Fee Fund.

AAPI Block Party Praised; Splash Pad Reopening Announced

Councilmember Ortiz was lauded for organizing the AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) block party, which was described as an amazing event. The event featured six dancing groups, authentic food, and was attended by the Mayor. The positive feedback suggests a desire to expand this into a full-day event next year. Councilmember Ortiz also announced that the splash pad will open for the weekend, with a splash pad party planned for Memorial Day weekend, including music but no vendors or food trucks. Other upcoming community events include a community hangout on June 12th, a block party on June 13th, and a Juneteenth celebration in the park.