2 city wells offline, repairs underway

The City of Belgrade is working to restore two municipal wells and says the problems haven't made water unsafe to use.

"The city recently declared a water system emergency after two municipal wells experienced significant operational issues," reads a Monday press release from the city. "The declaration allows staff to expedite repairs, testing, and engineering work needed to maintain reliable water service and protect public health and safety."

Well #8 at Lewis and Clark Park was taken offline due to equipment damaged by sand and debris. Well #5 south of Interstate 90 near Yukon Lane was taken offline, because groundwater levels dropped below the point needed for normal operation.

Repairs to Well#8 are expected to include pump replacement, related repairs, and installation of additional filtration equipment, according to the city.

The fate of Well #5 is uncertain, the city indicated.

"The city is working with engineers and other specialists to better understand groundwater conditions and evaluate long-term system reliability," the release states regarding Well #5.

The city's water system emergency declaration authorizes up to $500,000 for repairs and restoration work associated with Well #8 and up to $100,000 for testing, engineering evaluations, hydrogeologic analysis, and other investigative work related to Well #5 and broader water system reliability, according to the city.

"These costs are not expected to affect customer utility bills or water rates. The city's reserve funds are specifically intended to address unexpected operational and maintenance challenges while maintaining essential services," the release states.

The city urged people to follow water-use restrictions to ensure continued water system reliability.

"As long as residents continue following those restrictions, the city can meet community water demand," the release states.

Watering is prohibited from 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., when demand on the system is highest.

"We want residents to know that their drinking water remains safe and that city staff are actively managing the situation every day," said Belgrade City Manager Neil Cardwell in the release. "While these issues present operational challenges, we have plans in place to maintain reliable service, restore capacity and evaluate long-term solutions."