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Workshop flags outdated SCADA, meter software and equipment shortfalls; leasing discussed
Summary
Council and staff reviewed SCADA reliability problems, meter/software expectations, and aging heavy equipment. Staff recommended keeping SCADA and meter budgets and exploring leasing or shared use for a replacement backhoe instead of immediate purchase.
At the Oct. 21 budget workshop, utilities staff described recurring reliability problems with the city’s SCADA system, transducer failures after storms, and spotty telemetry linked to cellular and radio reception. Michael said portions of the system are antiquated and that staff are exploring local contractor options and further assessment: “There’s some sort of discrepancy with the… cellular towers and radio waves,” he said, and asked for time to determine what does and does not work.
Staff urged retaining SCADA and meter upgrade line items in the budget so the department can modernize telemetry and adopt new meter software that staff expects will streamline reading and free up staff time. Michael said improved meters and software should provide "a little more fluidity" in operations once implemented.
Councilors also discussed equipment needs. A $125,000 CIP line for a backhoe is carried forward but councilors proposed short‑term leasing or borrowing from other departments to bridge immediate needs. One councilor noted a current telehandler lease example costing $3,000 per month and suggested exploring Case or other vendor leasing programs. Staff said they will consider leasing if purchase is unaffordable this fiscal year but prefer a long‑term equipment plan and cross‑department sharing of heavy equipment.
Why it matters: SCADA and meter reliability directly affect monitoring and timely response to distribution and wastewater issues. Aging heavy equipment constrains field work and can delay repairs.
Next steps: Staff will audit SCADA performance and produce an assessment of required upgrades; finance and shop staff will explore leasing programs, equipment sharing and short‑term maintenance options for the backhoe and other heavy equipment.
