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Council approves $59,619 amendment to expand ice‑slurry cleaning of sewer force mains
Summary
Cave Creek approved a change order to expand an ice‑slurry cleaning pilot by American Pipeline Services to two additional force mains after initial work on the Rancho Mignon main produced visible debris removal and improved pump performance.
The Cave Creek Town Council on Tuesday approved a contract amendment of $59,619 to expand a pilot cleaning of the town's sewer force mains using an ice‑slurry 'picking' method supplied by American Pipeline Services (APS).
Utilities staff explained that the town has three major force mains (Rancho Mignon, Stagecoach and Chiparosa) and that the Rancho Mignon line showed signs of settlement and blockages causing reduced flow and a recent overflow at the Rancho Mignon lift station. Sean (utilities) described the ice‑slurry approach as a scouring technique that injects chilled slurry into the line and pushes it with pumps to mechanically remove settled material. Staff said they carried out an initial cleaning on the lower section of the Rancho Mignon line and observed debris removal and measurable improvements in pump performance and pressure profiles.
The vendor's mobilization cost and limited national availability of the equipment were cited as reasons to perform the work on the other two force mains while the contractor is on site. The total projected cost to clean all three mains was presented as just over $158,000; the requested council action covered the additional scope and mobilization to include Chiparosa and Stagecoach.
Councilmembers asked about the frequency of repeat cleaning; staff said the vendor estimated a useful interval of roughly 3–5 years depending on material accumulation. The council approved the amendment unanimously, with staff characterizing the work as preventive maintenance intended to reduce the risk of future overflows and more expensive repairs.
Next steps: utilities will continue the cleaning program, monitor pump performance and proceed with planned inspections using inspection 'balls' to map diameter changes and lingering deposits.
