Melfort water tower inspection reveals significant deterioration

“The purpose of our inspection was to identify structural deficiencies and assess the feasibility of repair and repainting the structure,” the consulting firm told the city in a letter dated Dec. 8, 2023.

JCK Engineering used the second inspection to observe the exterior of the wood structure via crane. Homes said some serious issues were uncovered.

“What was found was some serious deterioration of the structure… the roof, the cladding around (the tower), is deteriorating,” Homes explained.

The JCK inspection revealed some of the wood shingles on the roof of the structure loosened — exposing the wood framing. There are a large number of pigeons in the structure as well, with several dead birds discovered in the excrement-covered attic space.

The report also stated wood framing and shiplap had rotted in some areas around the perimeter of the roof, and water was able to flow into the roof and into and down the side rather than over the edge as intended.

Several holes in the cladding allowed pigeons to be able to access the space between the metal tank and the wood enclosure.

Paint was revealed to be cracking and peeling around the structure, and at the base of the columns, some of the plated and column members were bent.

JCK stated in the report that the highest risk to the structure is water infiltration and the presence of pigeons inside the enclosure, leading to wood rot and corroded metal. They recommended much of the roof be replaced, the siding repaired, and the exterior repainted to preserve the structure.

To access the roof and perimeter the consultant recommended a steel scaffolding structure around the tower, which would require removing surrounding trees. The bent steel plates at the base of the columns may need to be reinforced, though the bend was also observed in an inspection way back in 1989.

JCK estimated the repair to cost between $350,000 and $400,000, including the cost of the scaffolding. Landscaping, consulting fees, and taxes are not included in the cost.

Homes said the city wants to get a firm sense of those numbers before ultimately moving forward with a decision. He added community engagement will be important when it comes to the water tower’s future.

“We know that the water tower is a fairly significant landmark, it has high heritage value,” said Homes. “Obviously the city’s name is on the tower and it’s very prominent in our community. So we know it’s important so we want to engage with our community and get some feedback on what the community thinks we should do with the structure.”

The city has not decided what form the community engagement will take but according to Homes it would likely start with an online survey.

In a report prepared by Director of Community Services Rob Lok, the estimated demolition costs to remove the water tower would be $275,000, including demolition of the foundations, removal and disposal of the tower structure, and some tree removal.

Lok’s report stated the site presents many challenges. They include the height of the tower, the trees that have grown underneath the tower, and the electrical lines in the alley south of the tower.

Local business Tower Glass is also located just north of the tower and Lok’s report said that any construction activity would need to have access to the business’ parking lot.

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @northeastNOW_SK

by Cam Lee

Melfort water tower inspection reveals significant deterioration

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