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Power outages and sewer inspections top operational reports; city staff outline repairs and next steps
Summary
Utility staff reported two recent outages caused by a transformer phase fault and a burned pole, high-cost fuse replacements, and ongoing turbine/bearing issues at hydros; sewer-TV inspections of roughly 3,000 feet turned up roots, broken pipes and missing manholes with estimated I&I reductions after repairs.
City department heads reported operational problems and maintenance work during the meeting.
Power operations: the power department reported a phase-to-phase fault at a main transformer that blew two substation fuses; staff said each large fuse costs roughly $2,600 and they replace all three when an event like this occurs. A second outage was caused by a burned pole near the Fish Hatchery; crews restored service and isolated the hatchery feed. Staff also said they are troubleshooting a recurring breaker problem on a circuit (referred to as 'number 5') that trips during outages and are coordinating specialist inspection once available.
Hydro generation: staff reported vibration on one turbine (possible bearing or wicket-gate issue) and said they will shut down the unit and visually inspect it; if the bearings need replacement more extensive work could be required.
Sewer inspections and infiltration: public-works staff reported in-house TV inspection of slightly more than 3,000 feet of sewer main during the month, identifying locations with roots, broken pipes and missing manholes and a few areas where pond/ponded water may be infiltrating the collection system. Staff estimated the repairs found in the study could reduce infiltration/inflow by a material amount when all work is completed, and they expect a draft report in mid-June for budgeting.
Equipment and parts: staff flagged truck and equipment maintenance needs (a sewer truck requiring about $5,000 in parts), and said they will bring replacement needs into the upcoming budget.
Next steps: staff will order needed parts, schedule turbine inspection, finalize the sewer-TV study draft for mid-June and return with budget recommendations.
