Mahoning commissioners trying to address sewer collapses in Boardman, Poland, Milton

YOUNGSTOWN

It’s only May, but the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineer’s office has already taken on four unexpected projects to the tune of

$2 million.

“These were all emergencies. These were all unplanned,” said Bill Coleman, who manages the office. “It’s been quite a challenge.”

At Thursday’s meeting, the Mahoning County commissioners approved $158,181 in spending to address two collapsed pipes – one in Poland and one under Interstate 76 in Milton Township.

The sanitary engineers also need to address a collapse near the new Panera Bread development at South Avenue and U.S. Route 224 and reline 3500 feet of pipe in Poland to prevent future collapses.

The latter project, for which the county will seek bids, will cost an estimated $1.6 million.

The Sanitary Engineer’s office budgeted $28.8 million for 2018. Only about $650,000 of the budget goes toward maintenance and larger equipment purchases. The majority of the budget goes toward utilities, personnel, chemical purchases and other recurring costs.

The office also has access to a $4 million replacement fund for expenditures to extend the life of the wastewater treatment system. Coleman said the county may consider borrowing to cover the unexpected expenditures.

Thus far, the collapses have not impacted service to residents or created environmental issues.

Read more about the situation in Friday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.