A crew from Flynn Drilling Company arrived Monday to begin removing the pump from Well #3 on Fourth Street and installing a new one. 

Public Works Director Nick Grube informed the board of aldermen at their Jan. 19 meeting of the need for the repair. 

According to Grube, the well pumps are powered through three-phase electrical service. Earlier this month, one leg of the service went down, leaving the pump running until it burned out. 

A new pump, including installation and related parts, could cost the city just over $26,000 Grube told the board. 

He also asked the board approve the purchase of a phase monitor for the well at an additional $8,000. This monitor will alert Grube anytime there was an electrical malfunction with the pump, potentially saving the city thousands of dollars. 

The board approved both purchases. 

By gradually raising water and sewer rates over the years, the city has been able to build up cash reserves to cover the costs of such repairs. Grube says he plans to pay for the pump and control panel using these reserves. 

The original bid included replacing all power cables and galvanized pipe. 

Grube reports that much of those items did not need to be replaced which will save the city around $8,000. 

The replacement of the pump was expected to be completed today. Chlorine will be run through the pump and lines to disinfect the system, before it is put back into operation. 

The control panel is estimated to be delivered in six weeks and will be installed by Municipal Equipment Company.