CENTERBURG — Centerburg Village Council attempted to hold a special meeting Tuesday night to approve the purchase of a new water pump. Though the meeting was not held, Village Administrator Phillip Lohmeyer said he was advised by the village solicitor that a new pump could be purchased.
The village water department is supported by two pumps that pump water from storage tanks to the water tower. One of the pumps failed but the existing pump will continue to service the village without interruption until a new pump is installed.
The new pump costs approximately $17,000 and should arrive in eight to 10 days. Lohmeyer noted that while a motor and parts have been replaced over the years, a new pump has not been necessary for at least 15 years.
Lohmeyer reported council was was unable to reach a quorum because three council members could not attend. The law dictates that the administrator can approve purchases up to $5,000 but purchases over $25,000 are required to go out for bids.
The village solicitor Kyle Stroh advised Lohmeyer that because the cost of the pump was under $25,000, he could purchase the replacement and council can approve the purchase at its next meeting on Aug. 6.
