Council approves sewer computer and multiple pump replacements after power surge

Council members approved a series of measures on March 17 to restore and protect the village sewer system after equipment failures attributed to a recent power surge and winter conditions.

The council authorized purchase and installation of a new sewer plant computer, software updates, data restoration and staff training at an estimated cost of approximately $16,966. The minutes record a motion to proceed moved by G. Simpson and supported by R. Empson; roll call was affirmative and the motion carried.

Separately, the council approved replacements for several pumps: an east pond pump damaged by the surge (cost not to exceed $12,000), a new effluent pump to restore the system to two operational pumps (cost not to exceed $15,000), and a south lift station pump damaged during a power outage (cost not to exceed $8,000). Each action was approved by motion with recorded support and "Roll-Yes. Motion Carried."

The council also approved a one-time west pond weed treatment under the existing permit at an estimated cost of $3,700. For ongoing issues with two auto samplers that have frozen in winter conditions, the council agreed to contact the manufacturer for service and troubleshooting; no procurement action was taken on samplers at this meeting.

The minutes record these actions as approved expenditures; they do not specify vendor names, warranty or expected lead times. The minutes do not include line-item budget reallocation language, so implementation is presumed to follow standard purchasing and accounting processes recorded by staff.