College Place council members on Nov. 25 approved several water and infrastructure actions after staff described problems with the recently drilled Well 8 and outlined near‑term needs.

Public works staff told council that Well 8 produced lower than expected yields and had elevated iron and manganese levels; the cost to make that well potable would exceed $1 million in treatment plus ongoing operating costs, so staff concluded it was not viable for drinking water. "That well just really isn't viable," Mr. McAndrews said, explaining the city is redirecting efforts to a new Well Number 9.

To pursue replacement capacity, council unanimously approved resolution number 25‑058 supporting a funding application to the Department of Health DWSRF low‑interest loan program to finance engineering and drilling of a new domestic well. Mr. McAndrews said staff had prepared a funding application due the next day and would include a letter of support from Martin Airfield if the site falls on or near that property.

Council also authorized a professional services agreement with RH2 Engineering for design of a rehabilitation project for Well 3 (Lampertie and Larch). The council motion authorized the public works director or designee to execute an agreement with RH2 for design work priced at $577,892 to modernize equipment, add chlorination and a backup generator and update critical components.

In transportation infrastructure, council approved an amendment to the JUB Engineers contract for design of a future roundabout at East‑West Road and College Avenue to include right‑of‑way appraisals and negotiations, a more robust entry monument and irrigation. The amendment increases the previously authorized contract amount from $82,600 to $318,800.

Each of these measures passed by voice vote. Staff said next steps include submitting the DWSRF application, initiating RH2 design work once the contract is executed, and advancing right‑of‑way and design tasks for the roundabout as funding allows.