Agenda Item Wording:
title
Presentation by the Wastewater Collections Division - Presentation and updates from the Wastewater Collections Division.
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Prepared by:
Ben Litwack, Public Works Manager, ben.litwack@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4671
Nick Bartsch, Public Works Director, nick.bartsch@visalia.gov, (559) 713-4052
Department Recommendation: Staff recommends that Council receive the presentation and updates from the City of Visalia Wastewater Collections Division.
Summary:
This work session presentation provides an overview of the City’s Sanitary Sewer and Storm Collection Divisions, including their staffing structure, system assets, maintenance activities, infrastructure rehabilitation efforts, and future operational needs. The presentation highlights the divisions’ essential role in maintaining Visalia’s underground infrastructure and protecting the community from flooding, sanitary sewer overflows, and environmental impacts.
Background Discussion:
The Sanitary Sewer and Storm Collection Divisions are responsible for maintaining and operating over 880 miles of buried infrastructure that serve the residents, businesses, and institutions of Visalia. The sanitary sewer system alone includes approximately 500 miles of pipeline and 13 lift stations, while the storm drainage network includes 380 miles of storm sewer, 43 storm lift stations, 7,031 catch basins, 46 ponds, and 35 miles of open ditches.
The City’s collections staff face a number of challenges as Visalia continues to grow and its infrastructure continues to age. Misuse of the system also creates the need for additional maintenance activities. Public outreach and a robust pretreatment program are helping to educate citizen on the proper use of the collections system.
To ensure reliable service, staff employs a proactive maintenance program that includes jetting 25% of the City’s sewer lines annually, completing a full system cleaning cycle every four years. Preventive maintenance, coupled with CCTV inspections, has enabled the City to maintain an exceptional performance record - Visalia has not experienced a sanitary sewer overflow in over a decade.
Stormwater infrastructure is maintained through regular inspections, basin mowing, sediment removal, and culvert cleaning. The divisions also provide 24/7 after-hours emergency response for sewer backups, flooding, and system alarms, coordinating closely with the Streets Division during major weather events.
Fiscal Impact: N/A
Prior Council Action: N/A
Other: N/A
Alternatives: N/A
Recommended Motion (and Alternative Motions if expected):
recommendation
No motion required.
Environmental Assessment Status: N/A
CEQA Review: N/A
Deadline for Action: 11/17/2025
Attachments: Presentation