Water project delays push expected supply to mid‑next year; council approves short‑term budget amendment

City staff updated the council on progress toward receiving water from regional projects and explained a key delay at a treatment plant.

Staff member Jason reported that filters and under‑drains installed at the treatment plant were deemed defective; the state water commission hired an independent engineer, whose report required removal and replacement of the parts. The supplier’s reported lead time of about 38 weeks would shift completion into late next year; staff said they are pressing the supplier and state to accelerate delivery. Jason said Snake Creek Pump Station should be substantially complete soon and could enable receiving water earlier once the remaining treatment work is complete.

At the meeting council moved and approved a budget amendment to cover remaining NAS, REM and OEM costs that staff indicated were needed to keep projects on track.

Why it matters: The timing affects when new water sources will be available to the city and has budgetary and service implications for utilities and residents.

What’s next: Staff will continue to press suppliers and regulators for faster completion; council approved the requested budget amendment and will monitor schedule updates from staff.