Since the Marshall Fire, Superior residents have been complaining about the smoky and smelly water after the town’s water treatment facility was damaged and ash piled up in the town’s original reservoir.
The Superior Town Council met Monday night to discuss ongoing questions about the town’s water supply and possible changes to land-use regulations.
Town staff updated the board on next steps to address the water issue. Alex Ariniello, director of public works, said ash removal from the reservoir’s banks will be completed next week. In addition, town staff recommended that the board consider using a Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) system to filter compounds that cause smoky taste and odor issues.
During the discussion, several members of the Board asked for clarity on whether the GAC system would be used as a long-term or short-term solution to this problem. Trustee Mark Lacis also raised the question of whether it would make more sense for the town to buy the filtration system outright rather than rent it out. Given the overall cost, trustee Laura Skladzinski recommended that the board offer rebates to residents who want to use the filtration system, rather than buying a GAC system for the entire town.
After discussion, the Board recommends that staff compile final cost figures for the GAC system and present them to the Board at a later special meeting.
The board next watched a presentation by Planning and Construction Manager Steven Williams, who outlined proposed changes to the Original Town Land Use Code (LUC) Amendment, considered a standard zoning area, and the Sagamore Community Planned Development (PD) Amendment .
Before the meeting, town staff conducted a survey and arranged a community meeting for residents of the affected area to provide feedback on the rebuilding process. The information gathered helps staff determine the next steps for Marshall Fire community planning efforts.
For the original town, the town staff suggested adjusting the front yards and side retreats of the street corners. Staff also recommended that the town allow additional dwelling units to be built before the main residence.
According to information gathered by town staff, Sagamore residents are looking for wiggle room for home heights, setbacks and building flexibility. However, Williams said the town wants to conduct additional investigations of residents.
The original town’s proposed amendment is scheduled to be reviewed and approved by the Town Council at its April 11 meeting, while the Sagamore Amendment will be considered at its April 25 meeting.
This is a developing story.
