Progress made: But city extends water restrictions

The City of Merritt is asking the residents in Merritt to continue to limit their non-essential water use until further notice.

On Tuesday (July 9), the City of Merritt issued a news release explaining that the Voght Well had a major failure that’s affecting the local water distribution system.

Additionally, the City says lawn watering is not permitted until the pump is repaired.

Kim Mullins, the City of Merritt Communication and Engagement Manager, provided an update, on Tuesday evening.

“We (the City) have been able to increase the output on the Collettville Pump Station to compensate, reducing the severity of the impact of the Voght Well failure,” she explained.” However, we are still not operating at full capacity.”

Photo Credit: City of Merritt

Mullins added that once the Voght Well is repaired, electrical engineers are recommending that the system dry out for at least 48-hours before attempting a restart.

“Conserve water by all means possible,” Mullins reiterated. “It is vital that we all work together to conserve water so that we maintain our fire protection services… Please be patient while repairs are underway.”

Updates to follow…