Utility Board approves multiple equipment purchases and repair contracts

The Albany Utility Board on Oct. 9 approved a series of equipment purchases and repairs for the city’s utility operations.

Board members authorized fleet to purchase five replacement fuel dispensers — two high‑speed diesel units and two regular diesel dispensers for Public Works at 1900 Northman Road, plus three twin dispensers at 1726 Lily Pond — from Barber Equipment of Albany for $86,012.72. Fleet staff said many existing pumps are 20–25 years old, parts are increasingly unavailable and outages can last weeks; the equipment carries a one‑year warranty and Barber provides local servicing.

The board also approved replacing an aged soft starter for blower No. 3 at the wastewater plant with a Benshaw series unit from Diverse Fab Works for $44,710. Staff said ESG, which holds a maintenance contract, recommended the replacement; the product carries a three‑year warranty.

In the water division, the board authorized a $46,930 contract with Donald Smith Company of Hedland, Alabama to install a new pump at Well 13 after on‑site diagnostics showed the existing unit could not be rebuilt. Staff described the work as time‑sensitive because downtown and nearby hospital service rely on that well.

At the wastewater treatment plant, the board approved a $58,683.92 repair from Waco Electric Supply for a large pump. Staff said a full replacement would run about $200,000 and that the repair is expected to extend the unit’s service life roughly four to five years.

Separately, fleet requested purchase of a 6‑inch trailer‑mounted Godwin pump from Xylem Dewatering Solutions (Cartersville, Ga.) under a cooperative Florida Sheriffs Association contract for $53,276.81. The board voted to recommend that purchase to the city commission; staff said the city maintains several Godwin pumps as critical backup equipment.

Votes and procedural notes: each action was moved, seconded and approved by roll call during the meeting.