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Keokuk Could Upgrade Technology

A new computer program could help Keokuk track some expensive infrastructure.

The city has agreed to spend tens of millions of dollars over the next 20 years to separate its combined sanitary and storm-water sewer system, per the EPA.

That process includes the televising of the city’s current system, which requires running video cameras throughout the system.

Public Works Director Mark Bousselot says the new software would allow the city to connect the sewer videos to address on a digital map.

He says that would give crews a head start on a repair because they could quickly refer to the video, even in the field, to see if, for example, roots or grease have been an issue in the past.

Bousselot says now, if sewage is backing up into a home, the cause cannot be determined until crews can get a camera underground.

He says the new computer program could also be used to let residents know when crews would be working in their area.

The software is expected to cost $40,000 + $7,500/annually for updates or downloads.

The Keokuk City Council could vote on whether to purchase the program on Thursday, Jan. 17.

Jason Parrott is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.