Could A Corner of Belhaven Explode?

That might be hyperbole. But there are gas wells at the corner of North State Street and Riverside Drive, and another down on Lakeland near Smith-Wills, that could be dangerous according to today's Clarion Ledger.

If left unplugged, officials fear the wells eventually will explode. But the city says it does not have the money to act any time soon. "They are dangerous the way they are right now," Thelman Boyd, the city's public works director, told council members last week. One well is located on the corner of North State Street and Riverside Drive. The other is off of Lakeland Drive near Smith-Wills Stadium.

Fountains, Water Bills, & Lakes

Belhaven College dedicates its new Entergy Pavilion and fountain today.

The City of Jackson warns Belhaven water bills will include and extra $20 charge this cycle.

The Northside Sun writes, "THE LEFLEUR LAKES flood control and economic development plan was first introduced in 1996. With it, came the promise of nearly ending flooding in downtown Jackson while offering the capital city a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cash in on the Pearl River. Twelve years and $2.8 million later, the river looks exactly the same. The LeFleur Lakes plan has been shelved and Jackson is no safer than it was before the Easter Flood of 1979." (Read the Full Story)

Water Quality

Jackson is flushing its water pipes to clear out the water clouded by chemicals used to treat algae at the O.B. Curtis Water Treatment Plant. Most of the city's water has seen marked improvement but the bad water lingers in Belhaven and Northeast Jackson. Full story in today's Clarion Ledger.

UPDATE: "Jackson Public Works officials are encouraging people to continue to call about water quality problems as workers flush the city’s water lines this week. Public Works Director Thelman Boyd said flushing has led to improvement in the color, taste and odor of tap water in northeast Jackson and Belhaven. But he suspects there are residents in other areas who may have complaints....Residents should contact Public Works at (601)960-2723."

Dumpster Day

Saturday is Dumpster Day for Belhaven - Eltonwood Drive, north off Elton Road.

Residents can bring yard debris or other household items 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting. Tires, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, chemicals and gas tanks will not be accepted. Businesses cannot participate, and proof of residency may be required. For more information, call the Solid Waste Division at (601) 960-1193.