The Utility Safety and Environment Committee on Oct. 8 authorized the early purchase of aeration diffusers for the WWPC consent‑decree aeration basin project to avoid supply delays that could jeopardize the project deadline.

Shane Stewart, wastewater superintendent, told the committee the items have a 24‑ to 26‑week lead time and “without them, we cannot continue on with each phase of the project.” He said the diffusers are “the most essential part of this project” and that the city seeks to pre‑purchase them so installation and subsequent work can finish before the consent‑decree deadline of Dec. 31, 2026.

Committee members asked operational questions about installation and location. Stewart said a contractor will install the diffusers and confirmed the work is at the wastewater plant. The committee read a report authorizing the purchase, requested an emergency clause and voted to approve the ordinance.

The committee did not set a procurement vendor or construction contract in the meeting; the action before the committee was limited to authorizing the purchase. The committee report and motions recorded at the meeting show the ordinance was moved by Mr. Oswald, seconded by Mr. Armstrong, and the motion carried.

The committee also noted the diffusers are manufactured abroad and that long lead times are the primary reason for pre‑purchase. No construction contract award or vendor selection was decided at the meeting, and Stewart said the contractor will handle installation once procurement is complete.

Looking ahead, staff will proceed with procurement and scheduling to meet the consent‑decree milestone dates.