The Embrun water tower will remain offline until spring 2026 following an inspection that revealed structural deficiencies requiring extensive repairs. 

During the week of October 27, Russell Township’s utility division emptied the tank to conduct a full interior survey. The visual inspection confirmed that several issues needed correction before the tower could return to service. 

At the November 10 council meeting, township staff requested that the procurement process be fast-tracked. They are preparing bid forms to secure two qualified contractors by the December 8 meeting. The plan is to begin mobilization over the winter, remove damaged components, and address all deficiencies inside the tank. 

“This is terrible news,” said Russell Mayor Mike Tarnowski. “But timing-wise, I think through the winter of not having the water tower in use is probably the best time of a bad time to not have it.” 

To maintain adequate water supply for households and firefighting, the municipality will continue enforcing the water ban introduced on October 29. Residents served by Russell Township’s water distribution system must limit usage. 

The restriction prohibits all outdoor water use, including lawn watering, pressure washing, filling pools or hot tubs, and washing vehicles or boats. 

Officials reassure residents that the deficiencies found did not affect water quality and were identified during a routine check.