HomeMy WebLinkAboutA032 - Resolution awarding contract to Electric Pump to provide and install a variable frequency drive (VFD) on a high service pump at the Water Treatment PlantITEM #:33
DATE:07-14-26
DEPT:W&PC
SUBJECT:CONTRACT FOR VARIABLE FREQUENCY DRIVE (VFD) AT THE WATER
TREATMENT PLANT
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
The Ames Water Treatment Plant (WTP) utilizes high service pumps to deliver finished water
into the water distribution system for use by customers. High service pumps are started and
stopped based on the water demand in the distribution system and level of water in the
elevated storage tanks. The high service pumping facilities at the plant include surge valves
that relieve pressure caused by pumps being turned on or off. Staff identified the
installation of a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) as a key improvement due to the ability
of a VFD to allow pumps to accelerate and decelerate water pressure, limit pressure
swings, and keep desired set points.
On June 10, 2026, the City issued Invitation to Bid (ITB) #2026-153 seeking a qualified
contractor to provide and install a VFD and perform all associated electrical, controls, and
SCADA integration work required for operation of the pump through the existing plant control
system. The project includes furnishing and installing the VFD, electrical equipment,
programming, startup services, staff training, documentation, and as-built drawings.
The bid closed on July 1, 2026. One bid was submitted, as summarized below:
Bidder Lump Sum Bid
Engineer's Estimate $67,580
Electric Pump, LLC, Des Moines, IA $60,250
Electric Pump submitted a responsive bid and identified Automatic Systems Company of
Ames, Iowa, and NAI Electrical Contractors of Ames, Iowa, as subcontractors for the project.
The contractor has proposed a project start date of August 12, 2026, with completion
anticipated by August 26, 2026. Staff has reviewed the bid and determined that it is
acceptable.
Carryover funds for this project are available from the Water and Pollution Control Department
Capital Improvements Plan (Water Plant Facility Improvements, $81,000, originally shown in
the FY 2024-2029 CIP).
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ALTERNATIVES:
1. Award a contract to Electric Pump, LLC of Des Moines, IA for the High Service Pump
Variable Frequency Drive Installation Project at the Water Treatment Plant in the amount
of $60,250.
2. Do not award a contract and direct staff to rebid the contract.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The installation of a Variable Frequency Drive on High Service Pump D will improve
operational flexibility and enhance the reliability of water delivery from the Water
Treatment Plant. Staff has determined that the bid submitted by Electric Pump, LLC is
acceptable and that Electric Pump is capable of completing the work in accordance
with the project requirements. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City Manager that
the City Council adopt Alternative #1, as described above.
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