Sanitary Sewer Claims

The claims linked to Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) incidents in the 2022-2023 fiscal year alone have amounted to an unsettling $3.4 million, which is equivalent to 50% of our reported losses among our member municipalities. The rising costs of SSO incidents serve as a reminder that our risk pool's strength lies not only in its financial reserves but in the public health, safety and welfare of member’s citizens. Considering the escalating costs of SSO claims, OMAG is exploring options to reduce this exposure to the risk pool, including limited coverage, higher deductibles, and/or higher premiums. In the interim, it is imperative that we, as a risk pool community, come together to develop a proactive and strategic approach to mitigate the effects of SSO incidents. 

Here are a few OMAG value added services your municipality can utilize to mitigate this issue:

Know where the issues with your system are located:

Acoustic Inspection is a quick, easy to use, and cost-effective method for determining potential blockage locations in your collection system.  OMAG has (7) Sewer Line Rapid Assessment Tools (SL-RAT) units available for members to use free of charge.  SL-RAT assessment information allows OMAG members to better allocate sewer line cleaning, CCTV inspection, and other maintenance operations.

Pinpoint the cause of collection system blockages/issues:

Closed-circuit television inspection is used to identify, evaluate, and mange obstruction and mainline defects. The value of CCTV inspection is hard to ignore.  Considering this, OMAG has partnered with Luckinbill to provide closed-circuit television inspection services for a maximum of 2,000 liner feet of sewer line as well as jetting and vacuuming cleaning as needed.  This grant has a maximum benefit of $5,000 and is provided at no cost to participating members.

Manage root intrusion:

Tree root are a stubborn and destructive force once they make their way into sewer main lines.  Chemical root control minimizes damage and service disruption and is one of the most effective methods for removing this costly line obstruction.  OMAG has partnered with Duke’s Root Control Inc to provide guaranteed sewer root control treatments to participating members.  This grant opportunity provides a 1:1 matching funds, with a $5,000 maximum benefit.

Continuing maintenance, purchasing equipment:

Maintaining your collection and observing “Best Practices” is of paramount importance.  Having equipment to maintain your sewer collection is costly enterprise.  Recent price increases have further placed owning maintenance equipment further out of many members reach. OMAG recognizes the need and in response, developed a grant to make this equipment more obtainable.  The Sanitary Sewer Equipment Purchase grant, is a 1:1 matching funds grant with a $10,000 maximum benefit.  Equipment eligible for matching funds include but are not limited to new/refurbished jetters, jetter nozzles, CCTV inspection cameras, and other related equipment.

Maintenance, Budget, and Planning Assistance:

Developing, budgeting and planning for sewer maintenance and replacement is a daunting task.  It is sometime difficult to know where to start.  Please know that OMAG’s Risk Management professionals are no further than a phone call or email away. If you’re looking for resources or assistance in dealing with your specific sewer collection system issue(s); please feel free to contact us at your convenience at (405) 675-1400. OMAG staff is available to answer your questions and connect your municipality with outside professional resources, if needed.

The Copper Sulfate solution

After an overflow, when asked what was done, many have answered with, we poured Copper Sulfate down the line after the overflow. What is the effectiveness of this strategy?  

 To be effective the chemical must come in contact with the roots. Roots grow in from above the water level down to the water. Short term results can be achieved when the roots are contacting the water, but once the above the water level, the chemical effect is greatly decreased. If the roots are not touching the water, there is no effect on the roots. It just flows by.

 Coper Sulfate is most effective as a capful flushed down a private septic line. In the case of a septic tank, it is determined the best results is at 2lbs for 300-gallon tank. (Without destroying the good bacteria)

 To be effective in a sewer main, what is the ratio of the amount of water to how many pounds of product are needed? Do you calculate or just pour some down the line? How do you know it works as it should? Is it to diluted to perform properly?

 If the line is holding and slow draining, how does this chemical flow down to reach the obstruction before diluting? After Jetting, then placing the chemical in the flow, the distance downstream to the roots, the amount of water in the pipe, and the flow will dictate how effective this type of treatment is. Once again, it will only affect roots in contact with the water, but that is about it.

 A better alternative is a jetter applied root control chemical. When this is applied through a jetter, it encompasses the entire pipe and coats all the roots protruding in the sewer pipe, not just what is in contact with the flow level.

 Once opened, and only utilizing Copper Sulfate, is this line place on a regular treatment schedule? If using the flow line only and adding this chemical, it will need to be re-treated at least every other month, as this is a nutrient rich source for roots, and they will quickly be back at the water level to get more water and creating obstructions for debris to catch on and build back up.

 When applying into a manhole or sewer system, do you wear gloves or eye protection? When you stand over the manhole dumping it in are you wearing respiratory protection from the dust and fumes or are you potentially inhaling these contaminates? This is an acidic chemical and needs to be treated with care.

 Even with a Jetter applied chemical, you will still need to return yearly, but far less than pouring copper sulfate down the manhole.

 There is also an option for a root control grant available through OMAG. With this grant it will remove the roots for two years, but roots are living and always growing and will be back even with the best chemicals. The question becomes how frequently do you want to come back and retreat to keep from having another backup on the same section?

This is Why I'm Angry about Positive Leadership

It's ironic that I'm angry about Positive Leadership. Here's why... 

1. People mistakenly think positive leadership is about rah rah and motivation but it's really about optimism, grit, and building great relationships to help your team overcome challenges and succeed. 

2. People roll their eyes when they hear the term Positive Leadership. They think it's soft, weak, and annoying. The truth is Positive Leadership is about being mentally tough and delivering hard results. It attracts the right people to your team and organization. 

3. Positive Leadership gets a bad rap because people assume it's about Pollyanna's thinking. But it's not about ignoring reality. It’s about maintaining optimism and belief to create a better reality. 

4. Too many people think you have to choose between positivity and winning. They think positivity may be a nice way to lead but it’s not a serious way to lead. The truth is you don’t have to choose. Positive Leadership leads to winning. It’s the way to lead if you want to win. Just ask the Los Angeles Dodgers and Rams. Clemson Football. The Miami Heat. Tampa Bay Lightning and many other teams I’ve worked with embrace positive leadership and win. 

5. Far too many think that Positive Leaders ignore the negative and pretend everything is positive. The truth is Positive Leaders are the ones who confront the negative to remove it and create a positive, connected, and committed team. 

6. Critics assume Positive Leaders don’t hold people accountable. The truth is they are demanding just not demeaning. They encourage and challenge their team. They set a standard and then love them and hold them accountable to meet the standard. 

7. So yes, I'm angry that Positive Leadership is discounted and frowned upon by those who have no idea what it’s truly about. If they gave it a chance, they would realize it's how great leaders lead and have led throughout history. 

But I'm optimistic they will!

-Jon Gordon; www.JonGordon.com

First Responders, PTSD, and Mental Health Resources

First responders, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical personnel, play a crucial role in our society. They rush to the scenes of accidents, fires, medical emergencies, and disasters to protect and save lives. However, the very nature of their work exposes them to traumatic and stressful situations daily, often leading to mental health challenges, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In this article, we will explore the impact of PTSD on first responders and highlight the importance of mental health resources in providing them with the support they need to cope with the demands of their challenging profession.

The Silent Struggle: PTSD Among First Responders

First responders are often regarded as heroes, and rightly so, for their selfless dedication to public safety. Yet, behind the scenes, many of them silently struggle with the psychological toll of their work. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed traumatic events. For first responders, these events can include everything from responding to violent crimes, witnessing fatal accidents, or battling life-threatening fires.

The prevalence of PTSD among first responders is alarmingly high. According to research conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions, including PTSD and depression. These conditions can significantly impact their personal lives, job performance, and overall well-being.

The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health

Despite the increasing awareness of mental health issues, there remains a significant stigma surrounding mental health challenges in the first responder community. Many first responders fear that acknowledging their mental health struggles could jeopardize their careers or damage their reputations. As a result, they often suffer in silence, avoiding seeking help when they need it the most.

However, the consequences of untreated PTSD and mental health issues can be severe. It can lead to self-destructive behaviors, substance abuse, strained relationships, and in the worst cases, even suicide. Recognizing the importance of addressing these issues is essential for the well-being of first responders and the communities they serve.

Mental Health Resources for First Responders

Fortunately, there is a growing recognition of the need to provide first responders with the mental health support they deserve. Many organizations, both public and private, have taken steps to develop specialized resources and programs tailored to the unique needs of first responders.

1.     Peer Support Programs: These programs train experienced first responders to provide emotional support and guidance to their colleagues.

2.     Counseling and Therapy Services: Access to confidential counseling and therapy services is crucial for first responders.

3.     Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): EAPs offer a wide range of services, including counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals to specialized mental health providers. They provide a safe and confidential avenue for seeking help.

4.     Training and Education: Mental health awareness training is becoming more common in first responder organizations. Training programs aim to educate personnel about the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions and how to support themselves and their colleagues.

5.     Legislation and Policy Changes: Some states and regions have implemented legislation to ensure that first responders receive adequate mental health coverage and support.

Conclusion

First responders are the backbone of our communities, putting their lives on the line every day to protect and save others. It is our collective responsibility to ensure they receive the mental health support they need to cope with the challenges of their profession. PTSD and other mental health conditions should not be viewed as signs of weakness but as natural responses to the extraordinary stressors they face. By offering resources, reducing stigma, and fostering a culture of mental health awareness, we can support our first responders in their efforts to protect and serve, ultimately saving those who save us.

For information about resources available to first responders, contact Monica Coleman at (405) 657-1422 or mcoleman@omag.org.Top of Form 

OMAG In Action (Volume 7)

OMAG's Police Liability Update (August 2023)

OMAG In Action (Volume 6)

Put Your City Council Agenda to Work for You

Title 25 of the Oklahoma Statutes – sections 301 and following, require you to post notice of time, date, and location of a city council or town board of trustees meeting, along with the meeting’s agenda in public view for a regular or special meeting. Beyond meeting the letter of the law, a smartly constructed agenda will aid in the goal of holding a professional business meeting by use of a robust consent agenda, removal of administrative items from the agenda, and following the “4 Rule” best practice for municipal meetings.

A robust consent agenda contains items that are routine and can be acted on with one motion and one vote.  Any individual member of the governing board can request that an item be removed from the Consent Agenda for separate individual consideration.  Additionally, any item(s) that “smell” like they are administrative should go on the Consent Agenda. 

The “4 Rule” is the four things that should appear on an agenda:

✓  The Future

✓  Policy/Culture

✓  Monitoring Results

✓  Decisions that exceed the authority delegated

The Future of the organization is infrequently on the agenda. At least several times a year the future should be on the agenda. This allows discussion by the governing board to give staff guidance, and to have policymakers updated on the progress of ongoing or upcoming projects or initiatives

Policy/Culture shouldn't take much time, as our cities and towns are mature organizations. Any action related to policy decisions, or the culture of the organization, should be to make small incremental adjustments designed to fine-tune existing policies.

Effective reporting or monitoring results is a result of the governing body directing staff on the frequency, content, and format of reporting. We recommend the governing body instruct staff on reporting requirements, or in monitoring results, in the form of a resolution contained in a Resolution Book. This not only informs current policymakers and staff but also future staff and future governing board members on the reporting requirements.

Authority should be pushed down as far as it can go, and information pulled up as high as it will come. Delegation of authority frees up policymakers to focus their time on the things that only they can do. Consider delegation of authority in the form of spending limits, budget controls, and authority to sign documents and make operational decisions within the boundaries of the annual budget, city charter, and state law.  Monitoring results and delegation of authority go hand in hand.  Don’t delegate additional authority with sufficient reporting requirements.

A smartly constructed agenda not only informs the public on items the governing board will discuss and/or act on, but it will also additionally aid the elected officials in understanding their role, focus their time on their work and not administrative work, and over time produce better outcomes.

Pump Station Property Coverage

OMAG staff has worked hard over the last few years to ensure that our members have adequate property coverage.  We utilize in-house appraisal software for buildings and have an ongoing appraisal partnership with HCA for professional appraisals on plants and buildings.

Over the last couple of years, we have seen an increase in pump station claims typically due to lightning.  While lightning is the most prevalent peril, pump stations can be susceptible to flood, wind, and ice.  We understand that if a pump station sustains a loss, it can have a significant impact on the city.  This is why it is so important to make sure you have adequate coverage.

First thing you want to do is look at your most recent OMAG property schedule and make sure that all your pump stations are covered. Next, you want to make sure that there is adequate coverage for each pump station.  After reviewing your schedule, if you notice any pump stations that are not scheduled or ones that appear to be underinsured, please contact the OMAG Underwriting Department. We will make sure that your pump stations get added and limits are adequate as soon as you contact us.

We know that insurance is one of many things that our members have to keep track of so please let us help you.  If you feel that an in-person visit is needed to discuss pump stations or any other coverages, please contact our Insurance Services Department.  They have vast knowledge of our coverages and are more than happy to come visit with you!

Neighbor helping Neighbor

Have you ever borrowed something from a neighbor? Do you share something with a friend or family member?

 Have you thought of sharing with your neighboring town? What if, several municipalities were to get together and share in the purchase of a sewer jetter? An interlocal agreement could be reached between multiple entities.

 For example, 4 municipalities agree to purchase a jetter, with each taking advantage of the OMAG Sanitary Sewer Equipment Grant. A new single axle 400-gallon jetter is around $65,000. This breaks down to $16,250 for each of the 4 Municipalities. After the approval for an OMAG Sanitary Sewer Equipment matching grant up to 10k your cost is now $8,125, much more achievable than going alone.

 Indoor location for winter storage/Maintenance/Repair costs/Emergency’s/Weekly rotating schedule all can be worked out with and interlocal agreement, which OMAG can assist in creating.

  A good question to ask yourself. In a year how much would you be able to clean and improve your system? During the week of use, 8,000 to 10,000 linear feet of line could be cleaned, and over time that number will increase. In year you could clean 96,000 linear feet of sewer line on a 4-week rotation. You also could take part of your scheduled week and use it for preventive maintenance such as root treating known areas.

 Without a jetter you are unable to clean lines or maintain them. You must rely on others to assist when you have a SSO or backup. Without maintenance and cleaning your system slowly continues to build up debris in the lines.

 There are over 500 towns with a population less than 5,000 people, this is a way for you to team up with other towns to become better stewards of your wastewater system asset.

 It is only through sharing and working together can this be achieved with many small municipalities.  Don’t discount this or other similar ideas to provide you with a cost-effective way to care for your sanitary sewer system.