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Water and wastewater staff outline extensive repairs, pump replacements and capital pressures
Summary
Utility staff reported multiple failing or aging wastewater pumps and lift‑station components, HVAC problems that may accelerate wear, possible $15,000 repairs and multi‑year capital needs; staff proposed prioritizing purchases, pursuing grant opportunities and returning with detailed cost estimates.
Public works staff delivered an extended briefing on water, wastewater and stormwater needs that included pump failures, HVAC deficiencies, lift‑station repairs, equipment‑sale options and multi‑year capital planning. Staff said several pumps date to 1988 and require replacement or in‑house rebuilding; examples cited in the transcript include $5,377 per smaller pump, $15,000 for gear rebuilds in one case, and $30,000+ for large lift‑station pumps.
Staff highlighted operational drivers: high temperatures in pump rooms (reported as high as 130°F in one station), failing check valves with vendor quotes around $8,000 each, long lead times (7–12 months) for some parts, and recurring maintenance budgets that may be insufficient. To reduce recurring costs staff proposed selling an old camera truck on govdeals (suggested reserve bid ~$50,000) and pursuing payment plans for a replacement truck or splitting costs across funds (wastewater/stormwater). Staff also raised a recurring main‑relining program budgeted at $40,000–$50,000 per year as a way to renew mains without full road excavation.
Board members asked for a follow‑up budget session and staff agreed to provide consolidated pricing and prioritization there. Staff emphasized the need to order long‑lead items promptly to avoid multi‑month delays.
