Council hears engine failures; city must complete tests to keep capacity credits

The Washington City Council heard an update on problems with the city’s power-plant engines and set a short deadline to complete required testing.

Council Member Terry Morse reported that during recent work by an outside crew identified as Farabee, all injectors were pulled from engine nine; seven injectors failed, five were repairable and two were replaced. Farabee adjusted cam timing and removed a link from the timing chain so the timing was set to factory specification, Morse said, but a differential pressure problem remained. Farabee planned to return the following week to continue repairs.

City staff told the council that engines nine and ten are scheduled to be tested Dec. 12. City Administrator Carl Chalfant said the tests must be completed by Dec. 15 or the City will lose capacity credits tied to the units. Council Member Jerry Fuhrken asked whether the contractor would be responsible for any lost capacity payments; Chalfant said the contract requires dual‑fuel usability and staff would consult City Attorney Elizabeth Hiltgen about calling the performance bond if necessary.

Why it matters: capacity credits can carry financial and regulatory value for small utilities; missing the testing deadline could expose the city to lost credits or payments. The council directed staff to pursue further review of contract obligations and remedies.

What’s next: staff anticipates engine testing on Dec. 12; the council will be updated after results and after staff consults the city attorney about contract and bond options.