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Council hears higher estimates, generator additions for lift-station upgrades
Summary
Councilors and staff discussed a proposed set of lift-station upgrades that staff said would replace aging pumps and controls, add two permanent generators and relocate the Drake Motel station; speakers said the construction estimate has risen compared with earlier figures and staff sought direction on whether to pursue the full scope if affordable.
City councilors spent the bulk of the workshop reviewing an updated plan to upgrade several wastewater lift stations, add permanent backup generators at two sites and relocate the Drake Motel lift station out of a creekside position.
A presenter (speaker 8) said the latest design now includes two permanent generators at sites that had previously been planned to rely on portables. "The addition of the two generators, you know, I think that's probably around a $100,000 of the cost," the presenter said. Staff said relocating the motel station and replacing a force main were additional items not in the original evaluation report.
Councilors and staff described a material upward revision from earlier figures. One councilor and staff referenced earlier construction figures characterized during the meeting as "6.75" and later "8.15," and a staff member described the current plan as about $250,000 higher than initial estimates. Staff also warned that some components have a roughly 12-week lead time and asked whether the council wanted to proceed with the expanded scope if the project is affordable.
Public works staff member Mike (speaker 5) described how the Drake Motel station serves multiple customers — the motel, nearby shops and a pond — and said the existing station is undersized and deteriorated: "It's held together with trash," he said, arguing the station needs significant work to keep area businesses functioning.
Administrator Christina (speaker 2) and staff discussed financing options and next steps. Christina said she would obtain an updated schedule from Todd Hagen and distribute it to the council for review. Staff explained the council can use sewer revenue and assessments in a mix the council chooses; they urged the council to review financing details before approving full construction.
No formal vote was taken on construction authorization. Councilors asked for a refined cost breakdown, a procurement schedule and financing scenarios before making a decision.
What's next: staff will provide an updated project schedule and financing options for council review at a subsequent workshop or council meeting.
