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Council approves $374,565 wastewater equipment replacement after recurring damage from flushable wipes
Summary
Basehor City Council approved purchase and installation of a Huber step screen, wash press and control panels for $374,565 to address frequent failures caused by non-flushable wipes and rags; staff will use sanitary sewer reserves to fund the work.
The Basehor City Council voted to approve Fluid Equipment proposal OP-626243, authorizing $374,565 for a replacement Huber fine-step screen, wash press and new electrical control cabinets at the city’s wastewater treatment plant.
Municipal Service Director Gene Maracle told the council the aging screen was damaged by an over-torque event and ongoing problems caused by flushable wipes and other rags. Maracle said crews have removed about 35 gallons of rags from the clarifier and that damage dating back to 2020 already required substantial repairs. He recommended replacing the unit with a new Huber model of the same type; the vendor estimates about a 12-week build time and an expected service life of roughly 20 years. Maracle said the work will be funded from the city’s sanitary sewer reserve, which staff described as having healthy balances.
Council members asked about alternatives and whether extended warranties were available; Maracle said he would check warranty options. Sherry moved to approve the proposal; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously. Maracle emphasized ongoing maintenance practices and outreach to the public about not flushing wipes to reduce future equipment damage.
