Water issues dominated discussion at the Hiawatha City Commission meeting Monday evening.
As the city continues to explore options for addressing the ongoing problem of high nitrate levels in the city’s water supply,Thaniel Monaco with BG Consultants of Manhattan told commissioners a hydro-geologist with Groundwater Associates doesn’t believe a nitrate stratification analysis would be successful in the area adjacent to the city’s existing north wellfield..( play audio)
Monaco said it was the consensus of those attending a meeting earlier this month held to discuss more in depth a request for proposals for a stratification analysis that the  city should pursue new well sites..( continue audio )
Monaco asked for the commission’s input on what the next step should be.  Mayor Crosby Gernon suggested that the commission hold a work session to further discuss the issue.
In other business, Brian Mellage, who is spearheading efforts to bring a large lake to southeast Nebraska, met with commissioners.  Mellage said he would like to seek a $12,500 grant through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for a feasibility study on a regional water distribution system.
With communities in northeast Kansas and southeast Nebraska  dealing with water issues, he believes a regional approach needs to be looked at..( continue audio )
Mellage said he needs a minimum of three governmental entities to agree to support the grant application.  He said the grant requires matching funds, but the city wouldn’t have to make a financial commitment.
The commission made no decision. Gernon said the commission would discuss the matter further after Mellage has talked to other communities.