New water filters are on the way, and new Bloomington fire chief was recognized Monday night. (WJBC File Photo)

By Andy Dahn

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington's water treatment plant will be receiving new plastic filters, as part of a multi-year plan to replace the current clay filtering system.

The city is hoping to begin installing the new plastic filters before this summer, and expects the project to be completed by late April. Superintendent of water purification Rick Twait said the new filters are an upgrade from the current clay system, and are made to last for nearly 40 years.

"There are multiple advantages," Twait said. "The more resilient polymers that are being used to make the new under drain systems should allow it to last much longer than our current clay under drains."

Twait said the treatment of Bloomington's water wouldn't be possible without proper filters.

"We do rely quite heavily upon the filtration process," Twait said. "It's the final physical process that removes any possible pathogens that might be in the water that have escaped our upstream treatment processes. A properly operating filter is important to maintain the integrity of our entire water system."

City council also recognized new fire chief Brian Mohr, who said being sworn in before a packed city hall made for a special moment.

"It was overwhelming to see the support of the firefighters here tonight," Mohr said. "It was great to look back and see everybody here, both the community and department members. The support has been incredible."

Mohr said it's time to get to work and he has a long to-do list.

"'It starts with trying to improve on operational efficiencies within the department," said Mohr. "Reviewing and analyzing community risk, and trying to make sure everyone is aware of our response times in certain areas."

Along with the new filters, council also approved relocating two water transmission mains that are currently located in Normal's Main Street Bridge.

Andy Dahn can be reached at [email protected].