Council advances wastewater Phase 2 modeling and approves multiple public-works purchases

Council approved initiating modeling and engineering work for Phase 2 of Mount Vernon's wastewater treatment facility as part of the city's nutrient reduction obligations, and approved a slate of public-works capital purchases and contractor pay estimates.

City staff said Phase 2 modeling and design work is needed to meet the city's NPDES permit conditions and estimated the construction cost would later range roughly between $4 million and $5 million, while the immediate engineering agreement to start modeling is approximately $79,000. Council voted to begin the Phase 2 process so the city stays within the DNR-prescribed window.

The council also approved a small change order to replace amplifiers at the Linn County Branch Center (LBC) for $2,864, spray-foam insulation and tube heaters for the Bryant Road public-works building (insulation estimate $38,713; heater system $15,960), and a $6,600 locker purchase for staff. Council approved pay estimate #1 for the Ranger (Richel) Street improvements in the amount of $112,795.72.

Councilmembers discussed financing and timing; one member compared Mount Vernon's upcoming work to a larger upgrade in New Hampton to provide perspective on cost scale. Staff noted some carryover from earlier sewer notes and that phasing and bonding will be used to manage costs.

Next steps: Staff will proceed with engineering and modeling for Phase 2 and manage contractor payments and equipment procurement as approved. Council recorded motions and carried the agenda items by voice vote or roll call as noted in the minutes.