Commission authorizes purchase of backwash pump and 100-hp motor for water plant

The Ottawa City Commission approved an emergency purchase to replace a failed backwash pump and a 100-horsepower motor at the city’s water treatment facility after staff reported the existing equipment seized over Labor Day weekend.

Public Works staff said the pump — original to the plant and installed in 1980 — experienced a seized condition and an inspection found a worn impeller and volute. Temporary repairs by a vendor restored service, but staff recommended buying a new pump and motor because the pump is near end of life and has roughly 800 operating hours and because vendors report a 24-week lead time for the pump and a 10-week lead time for the motor.

Staff recommended purchasing the pump from Lehi Letts Van Kirk and the motor from Independent Electric at a total purchase price quoted as $126,051.69 (freight excluded). Staff said the emergency repair over Labor Day cost just over $5,000 and that the city has about $150,000 in an undesignated stability outlay sufficient to fund the purchase. Staff warned that if the backwash pump is out for more than about 10 days the plant could be unable to backwash filters, potentially causing regulatory noncompliance and service impacts.

Commissioners questioned alternatives, vendor competition and contingency plans. Staff said the city had solicited quotes for motors from multiple suppliers and that some pumps have limited suppliers; they also described plans to refurbish the old pump and keep it as a longer-term backup. The commission approved the purchase by roll call with Mayor Pro Tem Allen absent; Commissioners Kaler, Clayton, Crowley and Mayor Skidmore voted yes.

Next steps: staff will proceed with the purchase and manage capital planning for possible adjustments to the 2025 CIP to preserve fund balance.