Minutes - Public Works Committee - 02/21/2006

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Case #1: Repair of Pump for Well #3 Public Works Utilities Lead Nelson explained constructed in 1997, Well #3, which produces about 1600 gpm is the largest water producing well in Ramsey. Recently it was observed that during start-up the 125 hp motor seemed to labor excessively for approximately 30 seconds before operating speed was obtained. Staff had an electrician test the draw amperage the pump motor was pulling and found rather than the expected 200 amps and actual pull of 420 amps. Staff contacted EH Renner and explained the problem. A service technician made a field analysis and determined that bearing failure and impeller drag may cause the excessive amperage pull. The technician also commented that it's common for a well pump which produces the volume of water such as Well #3 has for eight years to have these types of repairs needed. The worst case estimate for repairs totals $18,772. He stated staff has discussed beginning a preventative maintenance program to have a more proactive approach to problems before they arise. Public Works Director Kapler indicated the preventative maintenance program could include pulling the pump after a certain number of gallons are pumped. Mayor Gamec commented there is no choice other than to fix the pump, and there is money available in the fund. Motion by Mayor Gamec, seconded by Councilmember Olson, to recommend that the City Council contract EH Renner to make repairs to Well Pump #3 at a cost not to exceed $19,000. Further discussion: Mayor Gamec inquired if this recommendation should be acted on by the City Council at the next Council meeting, rather than waiting for the scheduled report from the Public Works Committee in March. Public Works Director Kapler suggested if the vote of the Committee is to forward this recommendation to the City Council, that the motion include a statement that it be on the agenda of the next City Council meeting. He advised the Finance Officer has indicated this case can be included on the Consent Agenda. Motion on the floor amended as follows: to recommend that the City Council contract EH Renner to make repairs to Well Pump #3 at a cost not to exceed $19,000, that the recommendation be included on the Consent Agenda of the February 28, 2006 City Council meeting, and that information on the case be included in the Weekly Update. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Chairperson Cook, Mayor Gamec, and Councilmember Olson. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmember Elvig. Case #2: Consider Process for Streets Scheduled for Reconstruction in 2006 CIP City Engineer Jankowski explained the Capital Improvement Program has two street reconstructions scheduled for implementation in 2006; Dysprosium Street from CR 116 to 143rd Avenue, and Garnet Street and 168th Avenue in the Now and Then Estates subdivision. Both these projects should receive consideration prior to proceeding with implementation. In the case of Now and Then Estates, these streets were constructed in 1988 with a road structure that was Public Works Committee / February 21, 2006 Page 2 of 6