Urgent, unexpected repairs to Sundre's water treatment plant have cost the municipality $13,000.
There are two equipment repairs that town officials say arose unexpectedly. Parts were purchased for the onsite chlorine generator and two new polymer pumps for the plant, according to a report to council from Ron Baker, the director of operational services.
The plant utilizes an onsite chlorine generator, which is a small electrical reactor that converts salt and water to liquid chlorine. This disinfects the raw water.
The case for the machine cracked and began leaking, but operators were able to keep it running until a replacement case could be installed.
The plant also utilizes a filter aid chemical to supplement the filter process. The pumps originally installed in the plant could not be turned down enough to meet the required dosage, because the raw water is clean.
The repairs were completed prior to council's approval of the expense because it was “necessary” for the plant to operate, according to officials. Other options were tried, however, replacement was the only “workable” solution, according to a report.
Sundre council approved the $13,000 expenditure during the council meeting on Nov. 4. The funds will come from unnamed water reserves.
The new plant became fully functioning in 2011.
