Board approves $98,879 pump purchase to replace failed machine at Molly Creek sewer station

The Hot Springs Board of Directors approved an ordinance May 19 authorizing the city to waive competitive bidding and purchase a 125‑horsepower hydrostatic pump for the Molly Creek sewer pump station.

Assistant utilities director Bobby Harris told the board the existing pump had failed "due to age, wear and tear" and was not repairable; the station is a major pump serving the west side of Hot Springs and operates two pumps for redundancy. Harris said the replacement pump is a direct fit and will allow installation without major modifications to the station. The purchase price is $98,879.

Director discussion focused on pump capacity and practical installation; Harris said the pump moves roughly 1,000 gallons per minute at the rated head. The board adopted the ordinance on a roll call vote.