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Council approves three‑year service contract for lake aerators as water tests show improvement
Summary
The City approved a three‑year maintenance agreement for lake aerators and heard staff say recent water testing shows low nitrates and phosphorus; PFAS testing at wells was discussed and routine water monitoring is on the city’s consumer confidence report.
The Medical Lake City Council approved a three‑year service agreement to maintain and service the city's lake aerators, locking in an annual price after staff recommended the multi‑year option amid rising costs. City staff told council the annual service agreement had increased in recent years — from about $17,500 a few years ago to $19,500 last year — and staff recommended a three‑year locked price of $20,500 to protect the city against further escalation. The council approved the resolution authorizing the contract. Council and staff discussed recent water quality monitoring results from the city's wells and the lake. Council member reports said nitrates and phosphorus readings were "super low" and that when wells with small PFAS detections mix in the distribution system the finished tap water readings were nondetect. City staff also noted the consumer confidence report is posted on the city website and that Public Works Director Scott Duncan is available for questions. The aerator contractor’s optional water‑quality testing was discussed; staff indicated the city performs routine water testing in‑house and does not expect to purchase the contractor add‑on. The aerators, which staff and council credited with improving lake conditions, were installed in recent months using ARPA funds, and staff said the lake is showing signs of recovery after previous issues. The agreement covers inspection and maintenance visits to each circulation unit and includes seasonal repositioning as conditions dictate. Council members asked about timing for winter relocation and the contractor’s role in ensuring aerators are placed correctly when ice melts; staff said the contractor handles those seasonal adjustments as part of service. No implementation dates beyond the typical service season were specified at the Aug. 19 meeting. The council directed staff to proceed with the three‑year contract and continue routine water monitoring and public reporting.
