Amerado asks Grand Forks County to cover $132,443.55 in emergency water repairs; commission requests plan

Representatives from the city of Amerado told the Grand Forks County Commission that a break on an aging water main outside the city's limits has depleted local reserves and left contractors unpaid, and asked the county for assistance to cover $132,443.55 in documented emergency costs.

"Basically, at this point, we'd be asking for any assistance the county commission could provide, if that would be up to the 132,000 that is in those receipts just to at least get us through this problem so we can try to build back our reserve," Amerado's representative said, noting contractors would not return without payment.

The commission asked whether the broken line was outside city limits and who is contractually responsible; Amerado said the broken line is on the city's main line outside the limits but under the city's ownership and responsibility. Commissioners said they were sympathetic but would not create a county water utility and asked Amerado leaders to meet with county staff (Ford and Warmstead) to provide a written plan showing options for a grant, a loan or a cost-share and a realistic repayment schedule.

One commissioner said he was open to providing an interest-free loan and asked Amerado to return with a clear payback schedule and supporting documents in two weeks. "I'm more than willing to do a 0 interest loan and come up with some kind of payback schedule," the commissioner said. The board did not make a funding decision at the meeting and directed staff and Amerado officials to meet and return with formal proposals.

The commission emphasized the need for a plan demonstrating ability to repay if the board considers a loan, and said staff and legal counsel should review contract and grant limitations before any commitment.

The item will return to the commission after the requested meeting and documentation are provided.