Parkland County approves addition to Entwistle Pumphouse

PARKLAND COUNTY -- Parkland County has approved funding for a new chlorine treatment system at the Entwistle Pumphouse.

According to county staff, the purpose of the supplementary addition to the pumphouse due to "odour concerns" being reported throughout the distribution system. These concerns were investigated by both the county's public works department as well as Alberta Health.

It has also been reported that iron bacteria were detected at the facility. While the county approved $100,000 for the new chlorine treatment system, Mayor Rod Shaigec expressed his disappointed that a cost of this nature was not included in the initial project.

"Looking back at the process and the construction of the pumphouse and the reservior -- that was put out for RFP in May of 2022, on our website shows that construction started in 2024 and was finished late last year. So, we're one year out, and we're now having to put in $100,000," said Mayor Shaigec. "Having sat on the wildwater commission when that line went through construction, it was identified through that process that there would likely be issues with chlorine, which we're now seeing. So, I'm a little disappointed that wasn't picked up by the consultant during the first construction."

Parkland County's Public Works Manager Matt Good said the new system is expected to alleviate the odour concerns as well as possible aesthetic issues, such as a strange taste in the water.