Committee approves emergency authorization for repairs after diesel tank failed inspection

The committee of the whole voted May 27 to recommend emergency authorization to repair a leaking diesel storage tank at a city facility after a state inspection found the tank in violation.

City staff explained that sensors and seals on the diesel tank failed during the three‑year state inspection, creating an active violation. Staff asked the committee to pass the emergency authorization so repairs could begin immediately; a repair scheduled for the following Monday was cited as avoiding potential penalties.

“Sensors are bad. Sore seals. We are in violation right now, but we are able to fix our violation without getting penalized,” the city presenter said. Staff advised that if the tank is not repaired promptly the city could face a $1,500 monthly fine and possible adverse action against the operator’s license.

Officials said the repair is expected to allow continued use of the aboveground tank and that replacement is not required immediately; staff estimated that tanks in similar condition can be serviceable for five to 10 years after repair and that new site plans for future facilities would use aboveground tanks to reduce inspection complications.

The committee recommended the emergency resolution to full council by voice/roll call; the motion to forward the item passed on a roll call recorded as: Jordan, yes; Justice, yes; Nelson, yes; Robinson, yes; Silver, yes; Ursula, yes.

Staff said the administration will schedule the repair contractor for Monday to avoid fines and will return to council if additional work or funding authority is required.