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UAB approves purchase of portable generator for Well 4; transfer switch wiring cost noted
Summary
The board approved buying a portable generator for Well 4 to provide flexible emergency power for wells and lift stations. Staff said the transfer switch and wiring, estimated at $7,500–$8,000, were not included in the generator quote and will be paid from operating funds; the older on-site generator is nearly 80 years old and parts are scarce.
The Utility Advisory Board approved a resolution to purchase a portable generator intended for Well 4, which staff said can be moved to lift stations and other city utility locations during extended power outages.
Dean, a utilities staff member, told the board the existing well generator dates to the 1940s and that it still runs on monthly tests but is increasingly difficult to maintain because parts are scarce. “We’re on eBay looking for parts,” he said in the presentation, underscoring the age and serviceability issues.
Staff described the new unit as portable so the city can move it among wells and lift stations as operational needs dictate. The board heard that installing a permanent, hard-mounted generator on site would be costlier and less flexible than buying a portable unit that can serve multiple needs.
Staff told members that wiring and a transfer switch for Well 4 are separate costs not included in the generator bid; the transfer switch and associated wiring were estimated at $7,500–$8,000 and would be funded as an operating expense from the utilities’ budget. Staff said they expect to install the transfer switch before ordering the generator and that rental agreements are in place with equipment vendors for emergencies.
Board members asked about after-hours logistics and staffing for moving and connecting a portable unit; staff said on-call crews respond and the city has rental agreements with equipment providers in emergencies. The board approved the resolution by voice vote.
The presentation also noted that staff considered an alternate vendor quote that was roughly $15,000 higher and that some cables for multiple plug configurations are required; staff said they had quotes for different cable types and will procure what is needed.
