Council hears update on generators, substation delays and outstanding FEMA reimbursement

City staff told the council that recent generator testing confirmed automatic operation for several critical facilities, and work continues on placing a new generator at the sewer plant.

A staff member reported that contractors from Holt tested all generators, verified loads and warranties, and confirmed the water plant high‑service pump and the East Lift Station are set to run automatically during power loss. The sewer plant will receive a new generator to replace an older unit; staff said the older generator will be repurposed elsewhere.

On the substation transfer project, staff said engineers failed to order some required supplies at the appropriate time, contributing to delays. Council and staff noted long lead times for breakers and reclosers—participants said some parts can be three to four years out.

Staff also said FEMA has contracted a third party (Ernst & Young) to review the city’s reimbursement submissions and that the third party has raised questions about forms and documentation. The staff member said approximately "$2.02, $300,000" of FEMA reimbursement remains unpaid; staff described ongoing back‑and‑forth with the reviewer and said the city may not receive funds as quickly as expected.