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Beaufort approves $241,000 emergency appropriation to replace failed wastewater pumps
Summary
The Town of Beaufort authorized FY26 budget amendment No. 6 to appropriate $241,000 from fund balance for two urgent wastewater pump repairs and temporary rental pumps to avoid service disruption and potential environmental releases.
The Beaufort Board of Commissioners approved an emergency FY26 budget amendment on June 1 to pay for failing wastewater equipment and short‑term rentals while replacements arrive.
Finance lead Christy Wood told commissioners the amendment requests $241,000 from the utility fund balance to replace an influent pump at the wastewater treatment plant (approximately $60,000, with a 10–11 week manufacturer lead time and about $61,000 in rental costs while waiting) and to repair pump, check valve and piping at Lift Station No. 9 (estimated about $120,000). Wood said staff wants the board to appropriate the money now so equipment can be ordered without delay and to avoid operational or environmental risks.
Utility staff member Donovan Willis told the board the influent pump had been in continuous operation for six to seven years and that the failures were consistent with expected lifespans for pumps in heavy municipal service. Commissioners and staff discussed standardizing equipment and whether to stock a spare to avoid future down‑time.
Commissioner Matthews and others emphasized the need to move quickly to avoid potential wastewater releases and regulatory action. The board voted to approve the amendment by voice vote.
Staff said if deliveries extend past fiscal year end some funds may need reappropriation in FY27, and that planned capital improvement work and new rate structures aim to reduce the frequency of emergency repairs in the future.
