BACKGROUND: The South Water Treatment Plant has four mixer gear boxes that are critical components of the four exterior clarifier basins. The basins cannot operate without gear boxes. The gear boxes are all 28 years old. One gear box failed in late December that needed immediate repair. The reason for the immediate repair is due to the fact that if another gear box fails, the South Water Treatment Plant may not be able to meet all Federal and State drinking water standards. The option to purchase a new gear box was considered but one is not readily available as they are manufactured in Belgium.
On January 13, 2016 City Manager Tim Gleason authorized the repair to begin in advance of Council’s approval due to: 1) City staff not having the expertise and equipment to perform the work, and 2) the need to protect and conserve the public health. The authorization is attached.
Bodine Electric of Decatur was assigned to perform the repair as they had the expertise, equipment and labor available to complete the work on time. Bodine Electric of Decatur’s quotation (attached) is $61,210.70. Council is requested to authorize a cost not to exceed $63,000.00 for the repair in case unforeseen additional work is required to successfully complete the repair.
The work began in January and is scheduled to be completed very soon.