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(Image Credit: File photo/northeastNOW)
Planned upgrades

Work being done at Nipawin’s water treatment plant

Jul 15, 2026 | 1:05 PM

The Town of Nipawin is undertaking some work at the Water Treatment Plant. 

Council heard an update about the planned work at Monday’s meeting.

General Manager of Community Services Derek Seckinger told northeastNOW that new anthracite media will be added to all eight pressure filters to bring them back to their intended operating level. 

“Anthracite is a durable filter material made from hard coal that helps trap small particles as water passes through the treatment process,” Seckinger explained. “Some of the media is gradually lost through normal operation and filter cleaning, so replenishing it will support efficient and reliable water treatment while extending the useful life of the equipment.” 

Seckinger said the work was planned and included in the 2026 capital budget, with the funds coming from the Water Treatment Plant capital allocation.  

“Specialized technicians will work alongside town utilities staff during installation, providing hands-on training that will strengthen internal knowledge, improve future maintenance, and support a proactive approach to managing municipal assets.” 

Council also heard the fire department’s monthly report outlining various issues, including the recovery of needles. The report stated that the fire department picked up 148 sharps in June, with the total so far this year at 483, not including a full case of 500 that they also picked up. Last year at this time, that number was 859. 

“Sharps are found on a variety of public properties, not only near encampments,” Seckinger said. “Residents should leave them in place, keep children and pets away, and report the exact location to Protective Services.” 

Seckinger said the town has responded to a number of encampments this summer about public safety, site conditions, and the removal of abandoned or hazardous material.  He added that staff continue to monitor known areas and involve other agencies when required. 

Council also heard Nipawin’s half-year financial report at Monday’s meeting. Seckinger said revenues and operating expenses are tracking where Administration expected them to be.  

“Quarterly financial reporting will now become a regular part of Administration’s reporting to Council,” explained Seckinger. 

It was also reported at Monday’s meeting that the work on the 3rd St. N. lift station is now complete, the 11th Ave. water and sewer trunk line extension is moving forward, the recent landfill decommissioning project has been completed, and the landfill received positive feedback through its provincial audit. 

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com