Elk Ridge to fence its new water tank

ELK RIDGE, Utah County — Following the advice of state and local officials, the Elk Ridge City Council recently agreed to fence its new 1 million gallon water tank to keep out vandals, all-terrain vehicle riders, sledders and saboteurs.

For resident Lucretia Thane, protecting the community's water is a higher priority than protecting its open space. One of several residents who attended Tuesday's City Council meeting, Thane said she wondered why the panel had failed to protect the city's newest water supply when it was put in place more than two years ago.

Built in designated open space in the southeast part of Elk Ridge, the tank is the third to serve the community. The other two are in the southwest part of town and hold 500,000 gallons each. Both are fenced, but the council discussed increasing security for them.

The council voted 4-1 to fence just the newest tank, pump house and one of two overflow basins — about half the city-owned property. Councilwoman Erin Clawson dissented, saying the entire property should be fenced to protect against liability.

The vote included building an ATV trail alongside the fence, making the top more secure and installing one or more gates to service the site. The council also considered having the site patrolled.

— Rodger L. Hardy