Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Wastewater topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Comfrey hears of fourth pump failure at wastewater plant; council raises cost concerns over proposed solar grant
Summary
Public works reported its fourth wastewater treatment plant pump in need of repair and a sharp drop in monthly flows after a leak was found; the council reviewed proposed MPCA grant updates for a solar project and requested further cost details before proceeding.
City public works and utilities staff told the Comfrey City Council on April 8 that a pump at the wastewater treatment plant has failed and Electric Pump will inspect the unit this week. Officials said this is the fourth pump of seven to need repair; staff expressed hope the unit can be rebuilt rather than replaced.
Monthly flow figures presented to the council show 1.7 million gallons in January, 1.58 million gallons in February and 793,000 gallons in March after the leak was identified. Councilmembers noted the drop in flows after the leak surfaced.
Separately, the council reviewed proposed Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) grant updates for a planned solar project at the wastewater treatment plant. Council members expressed concerns about unknown costs to the city associated with the project. Mayor John Richter said he would contact Tim Zinniel and invite him to a future council meeting to answer questions about project costs and contract terms.
The council congratulated plant operator Steve Berberich for receiving MPCA recognition for outstanding operations in 2024.
No formal funding decisions for the solar project were made; council direction was to obtain additional cost and contract detail before authorizing further steps.
