Plant defended

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: October 16, 2008

Officials insist that any odours coming out of Vernon’s sewer treatment plant are minor and not indicative of a large problem. Andrew Marr, plant manager, reported to council Tuesday after some politicians had expressed concern that there may be unpleasant odours regularly coming from the facility. “My staff was very dismayed (by the comments). My staff has worked very hard on the odour situation,” he said. Marr added that he also keeps in regular contact with businesses near the plant. “Most people are surprised at the low odours we’ve had for the last three or four months.” Marr believes that any odours coming from the $30 million facility may be a result of the doors being open when trucks full of biosolids leave the site. “It’s unfortunate but it (biosolids) is what we process there,” he said, adding that wind can also play a role in odours. Marr told council that his staff has looked at everything that could lead to odours and remedial action has been taken when required. “I circle the plant to make sure I don’t smell anything and I walk the perimeter,” he said.