Authority approves operational fixes and supports Waterfest and Robinson Lake rain garden

The Hobart City Redevelopment Authority approved multiple operational and community items during its meeting.

Operational approvals: the authority approved a purchase of a replacement sampler for the main lift station contingent on verification of a warranty period; it also approved a Poshgen Electric program upgrade to automate force-main flushing for the 30-inch force main to allow scheduled overnight flushes (the packet referenced a price discussed in the meeting). Staff discussed security and remote-access considerations and said the upgrade would give the city control over schedule, frequency and volume of flushing. The board also approved repair work for a damaged awning at the main lift station not to exceed $1,979 depending on frame condition. A preventive maintenance program proposed by Roadtorque was discussed and tabled pending clarification of warranty overlap and timing.

Community and outreach: staff announced revival of an annual Waterfest (to be held at Robinson Lake) coordinated with MS4 outreach partners; the board approved a small event budget not to exceed $1,000 to cover printed materials and giveaways. Staff also presented plans for a new rain garden at Robinson Lake to capture parking-lot runoff and stabilize shoreline erosion; the board gave its backing for staff to solicit donations and volunteers and proceed with design and coordination with the parks department.

Contracts and maintenance: the authority approved a contract with Davie Resources for 2026 maintenance of stormwater-managed sites and approved a contract with Aircom for asbestos-related work at the wastewater treatment base shop as presented.