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Council flags $16,000 cost increase for wastewater video survey; DEQ funding questioned
Summary
Councilors were told an optional video portion of the wastewater inflow/infiltration study would raise that line item from about $8,442 to $24,808. Members discussed whether the state DEQ loan or ARPA funds could cover the optional services and agreed to prioritize the infiltration study if funds are limited.
City staff told council on Aug. 5 that two optional services accompany the wastewater facilities plan: an influent/infiltration study and collection system mapping. "That increased the cost from 8,442 to 24,808," the recorder said when describing the quote for adding the video survey to the influent/infiltration work.
Councilors expressed concern about a roughly $16,000 increase and questioned whether the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) loan or other grants would cover optional services. Staff said they would ask the DEQ contact whether either optional item could be funded under the loan, and recommended prioritizing the inflow/infiltration study (with video) because unseen line obstructions and root intrusion can lead to backups and more expensive repairs later.
Why it matters: the optional video survey would give the city a camera inspection of sewer lines and clearer diagnostics for root intrusion and inflow points. Staff warned that failing to inspect problem areas could lead to recurring repairs and potential environmental or health risks if the collection system backs up. Council did not make a final funding decision; staff will meet with DEQ and report back.
