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Eldridge City delays transfer-switch purchase, approves float-sensor replacement pending labor verification
Summary
At a Sept. 9 open session, Eldridge City officials tabled a decision on a replacement transfer switch for the water treatment plant pending revised proposals that separate surge protection from the switch work, and approved replacement clear-well float sensors and an electric-pump proposal contingent on verification that labor is included in the bid.
Eldridge City held an open session on Sept. 9, 2025, during which officials discussed several water-department procurements and maintenance issues, ultimately tabling a transfer-switch purchase and approving replacement float sensors contingent on a pricing clarification.
Staff presented competing quotes for a replacement automatic transfer switch at the city water treatment plant and told the board that one bidder had proposed a "service-entrance-rated" transfer switch that would require a 400-amp breaker and likely external mounting. The staff member said the plant’s current service entrance "is intact and there's no issues," and recommended soliciting revised proposals that separate surge-protection work from the transfer-switch replacement so the city can compare like-for-like bids.
Committee member Pavich moved to table the transfer-switch item pending revised proposals; Committee member Peterson seconded the motion. The board voted in favor and the item was postponed for further review.
Separately, under agenda item 10E staff described humid conditions and electrical concerns in the chlorine room and introduced bids to replace clear-well float sensors that serve as redundancy to laser level sensors. Two vendors were discussed: Tri City (recommended by ISG because it handles SCADA integration) and Electric Pump. Staff noted that some Tri City line items include integration and labor while one Electric Pump quote initially appeared to list materials only.
The board approved the electric-pump proposal on the condition that staff verify the quoted price includes labor; the motion to approve with that verification was seconded by Peterson and carried. Staff said they would bring the item back if the labor component was not included in the proposal.
Staff also recommended considering additional surge suppression devices (transient voltage surge suppressors, or TDSS) if the city chose to combine surge protection with the transfer-switch work so that sensitive drives and VFDs are protected.
The meeting record shows the board treated the transfer-switch decision as requiring further clarification of scope and deliverables, while moving forward—subject to a verification step—on replacing float sensors and the electric-pump work.
The practical effect: the transfer-switch replacement remains on hold while staff gathers revised, itemized proposals; the city expects the clear-well float replacements and associated pump work to proceed if the labor-cost verification confirms the approved price includes installation.
