Local Briefs March 24, 2012

Reclaimed water accidentally released

About 130,000 gallons of "reclaimed water" was accidentally released Wednesday in Post Falls.

"The released water was fully treated and disinfected," according to a press release. "There is no immediate effect to any drinking water supplies and the incident poses no health risk to the public."

Richard Froehlich, chief operator, said the incident occurred at the city's water reclamation facility. It was discovered when employees arrived for work.

The release was caused by a separation in a new line installed during last year's plant upgrade, he said.

Froehlich said reclaimed water is used for cleaning equipment and irrigation of green space at the facility. It is the same water that is discharged to the Spokane River each day.

Reynalds withdraws from Shoshone race

The race for Shoshone County's District 3 commissioner got a little tighter Monday when former sheriff Chuck Reynalds filed paperwork to withdraw from the running.

He said animosity is not a reason for dropping out of the race. He was going to run against Julianne M. Zook in the primaries, and other candidates seeking the position are Wallace-native Jon Ruggles, Republican Randy Childress, independent Jeff Cantamessa and Republican Leslee Stanley of Silverton.