Port St. Joe approves wastewater pump purchase and moves forward on bar‑screen replacement

Port St. Joe's commission authorized two wastewater items on May 7: the purchase of a Godwin 8‑inch diesel pump for $81,274.01 on state contract to improve lagoon agitation and an award recommendation for a bar‑screen replacement following staff review.

Wastewater staff said the pump would improve surface agitation and mitigate algae‑related odor during summer months. "This purchase was part of our surface agitation in our lagoon to help mitigate algae odor issues throughout the summers," staff said. The city confirmed the purchase was in budget and moved to approve the expenditure.

On the bar‑screen replacement (RFB2024Debt07), staff reported five bids and, after traveling to inspect options, recommended the Parks and AquaGuard option priced at $274,018. A commissioner noted a lower bid of $222,000 existed; staff explained the selected unit was preferred based on the in‑person review and perceived operational fit. The commission moved on staff recommendation and approved the award.

Why it matters: The pump purchase and bar‑screen replacement are intended to reduce odor and improve solids handling at the wastewater facility, addressing recurring resident complaints.

Next steps: Staff will complete procurement on state contract for the pump and proceed with the awarded vendor for the bar screen; optional washer‑compactor add‑on will be revisited next year.