Repairs ahead for aging wells

Elgin City Council approved last month emergency repairs to one of Elgin’s oldest wells after a sharp drop in water production raised concerns among staff.

Well No. 15 recently dropped from producing 1,000 gallons per minute to just 600, prompting city engineers to inspect the well and remove piping for evaluation. Staff determined the damage was due to water quality and general wear and tear and recommended immediate rehabilitation.

The well is essential for operations, staff said, and the resolution calls for future budget workshops to include a long-term plan for inspecting and maintaining the city’s other wells over the next several years. Council members voted unanimously to authorize city staff to proceed with the work, approving a contract with Advanced Water Well Technologies valued at about $86,000.

The city plans to fund the project through a mid-year budget amendment, as the cost was not included in day-to-day operational funds, according to city documents.