Othello well to be repaired by June

Repairs not to exceed $85,000

OTHELLO — Well No. 5 in Othello is expected to be repaired by June.

The city public works department discovered the well was falling apart from within in April resulting in the immediate shut down of the equipment.

During an emergency council meeting held May 18, the city waived the formal bid process to expedite the repair of the well. Council made the decision without knowing how much the project would cost due to the emergency status of the well.

City Administrator Ehman Sheldon presented council with the cost of the project and a formal contract with Irrigation Specialists of Othello during the Tuesday night council meeting.

It will cost the city approximately $65,000 to repair the well from top to bottom including a new motor. An additional $12,000 was requested to replace the shaft.

Upon inspection, a layer of barnacles and rust was scraped from the shaft, unearthing corrosion and visible cracks as long as four feet, Sheldon said.

Due to the condition of the shaft, it will need repair, he noted.

Councilmember Ken Caylor moved to approve an amount not to exceed $85,000 for the project to include the general repairs, replacement of the shaft, taxes and additional repairs if necessary.

Money will be drawn from the water reserves fund to pay for the work.

While the well used for potable water, fire flow and industrial needs is being repaired, the city will resort to using Well No. 6 when necessary.

The alternative well is more expensive to run and has higher levels of fluoride in the water but is safe to use, according to the public works department.