The SAM Board voted to authorize the general manager to issue a purchase order to GSE Construction for installation of effluent pumps, approving a construction estimate of $368,500.

Staff explained that three effluent pumps (procured earlier because of long lead times) require civil and structural modifications before installation; two of the three pumps are already in storage. Staff presented three options: (1) approve the contract now so the contractor can procure long‑lead items and schedule a May/June installation, (2) cancel the bids and rebid after next fiscal year’s budget is adopted, or (3) defer installation until funding is available. Staff recommended Option 1 to lock price and avoid further lead-time risk.

Directors debated the fiscal trade-off. Several expressed support for awarding now to avoid higher future costs and secure contractor availability; others cautioned that approving the installation effectively commits funds that will be reflected in the next fiscal-year capital figures, adding to other large commitments such as the Montero Force Main. "By agreeing to this, we're deciding now on a total budget for next year," one director said, noting the Montero project and carryovers could push next year’s infrastructure total higher.

A motion to proceed with Option 1 was moved and seconded; the board conducted a roll-call vote and the motion carried with affirmative votes from the directors present. Staff said the contractor will not be paid the full amount immediately; planned billing will be spread as work is performed and funds will be aligned with the FY26–27 capital budget process.