Public works flags $300,000 well possibility; fire department seeks 2025 funding for drains, gear replacement

Public Works Lead Joe Adams told the council that recent heavy rains caused bypassing on June 28–29 and that a Roto-Rooter inspection found a leaking sewer section between 5th and 6th Street; Adams is seeking pricing to line the pipe.

Adams also reported a well-company assessment indicating the city may need a new well in a couple of years. He said Wil Giesen from CEDA is researching possible grants and that city engineers will help identify options; the preliminary cost estimate discussed was about $300,000 and the project would likely be considered for the 2026 or 2027 budget cycle. The minutes record the $300,000 figure as an estimate rather than a contract number.

Fire Chief Duke Harbaugh asked the council to consider including floor-drain work and OSHA-compliance measures in the 2025 budget and said the department faces a financial hardship relating to gear replacement. Harbaugh said he will contact the Personnel Committee to schedule a meeting on personnel issues and will return to council with more detail.

Why it matters: sewer repairs and a potential new well are capital projects that could affect future budgets and service delivery. Fire-department safety upgrades and equipment replacement needs may require targeted budget allocations or grant support.

What’s next: staff will obtain cost estimates for sewer lining and pursue grant options for a well replacement; Fire Chief Harbaugh will coordinate with the Personnel Committee and bring budget recommendations to a future council meeting.