FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                 October 30, 2006

WASTEWATER SPILL OCCURS

AT KAILUA TREATMENT PLANT

            A fouled piece of equipment caused an estimated 14,000 gallons of untreated wastewater to overflow at the Kailua Wastewater Treatment Plant this evening (Monday, Oct. 30, 2006). 

            The spill occurred between 8:50 and 9:05 p.m. in the primary treatment facility in the plant. The overflow spilled onto the plant driveway then entered a drainage system on the grounds of the plant, at 95 Kaneohe Bay Drive in Aikahi.

            The spilled wastewater was contained within the plant grounds and is being removed. The area is being disinfected.

            The problem occurred at a new bar screen that is being installed at the plant and is not yet fully operational. It apparently became clogged, causing incoming wastewater to back up and overflow.

            The state Department of Health has been notified. Warning signs will be posted along the plant perimeter in the vicinity of the drainage system tomorrow morning.

            The Health Department requires that all spills of more than 1,000 gallons must be publicly reported.

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