Board approves meter purchase, pump repair and reviews water-plant switch gear after ice storm

Utility Director Darryl Green told the board larger on-demand water-heater meters are in short supply; he requested purchase of 12 meters at $6,500 (the lower of two prices received) and the board approved the purchase. Green also reported switch gear for the water plant arrived and is expected to be installed by the end of March. During the ice storm a starter was burned out on a high-service pump; Green located a replacement in Memphis for $8,000 and the board retroactively approved that purchase.

Green reported the East Lagoon contractor has struggled to complete the project and appears to be over estimate; the board instructed that the contractor must remain and finish the work. Recorder Garland and Mayor Bell noted gas prices locked this month at the highest rate in 4–5 years and TEAC is attempting to moderate the rate increases that will affect the March 15 billing cycle.