The Mobridge City Council made significant strides in infrastructure development during its December 30, 2024 meeting, approving a crucial change order for the water transmission line project. The council greenlit Change Order Number 1, amounting to $856,515, which will allow for the replacement of an aging water line that has been in service since 1962.

City officials emphasized that this change order is not a result of unforeseen costs but rather a strategic decision to enhance the water system. Jared, a project representative, explained that the funding for this project comes from a combination of American Recovery Plan money and FEMA grants, with the latter covering a substantial 85% of the costs for the third project in the water system improvement plan. This financial backing has enabled the city to proceed with replacing a half-mile section of the old asbestos cement pipe, which is nearing the end of its life expectancy.

The urgency of the decision was underscored by the potential loss of $448,000 in state grant money if the project was not awarded by the end of the year. Council members expressed their support for the change order, recognizing the importance of addressing the aging infrastructure now rather than facing higher costs in the future.

In addition to the change order, the council also approved an amendment to the engineering contract, increasing it by $53,738 to cover additional construction oversight and inspection services. This amendment is expected to extend the construction timeline by about a month.

The meeting concluded with the council approving a step increase for an employee and a reconstructed wage scale for the water and wastewater department, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance city services and employee compensation. The decisions made during this meeting are set to significantly improve Mobridge's water infrastructure and ensure reliable service for its residents.