The Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility is serviced by two incoming 24.9 kilovolt (kV) sources provided by NV Energy.  Each incoming service is connected to a transformer through a closed switch that converts the 24.9 kV to 2,400 volts.  The reduced voltage is then sent to the TMWRF’s main electrical switch gear for distribution throughout the plant.  The current 24.9 kV transformers were installed in 1986 and are reaching the limits of their intended reliable service life.  Over the last 5 years, tests have found degradation of the transformer oil indicating the equipment beginning to fail.  Additionally, the 2007 Arc Flash study identified these transformers as presenting a dangerous Arc flash hazard.  The Substation rehabilitation includes the two primary transformers, the feeders and switches.  

This consultant agreement is for construction management services during the project that includes inspection, testing, engineering support and detailed coordination to maintain power to TMWRF throughout the project.  Council approved the reimbursement to the City of Reno for the contract to construct the project with Nelson Electric Company, Inc. on October 23, 2017.

City of Reno staff will administer the contract and will be reimbursed for a portion of the costs by the City of Sparks through the Sparks – Reno cost sharing agreement for TMWRF.  The City of Reno and the City of Sparks share the cost for this project based upon their ownership of TMWRF, which is 68.63% for Reno and 31.37% for Sparks. Based on the ownership percentages, Sparks’ share of this agreement is up to $79,606.08.  

Council could direct the manager to have staff provide other alternatives.

I move to approve the reimbursement to the City of Reno for the Sparks’ share of the consultant agreement for construction management services for the Electrical Substation Project at TMWRF in an amount not to exceed $79,606.08.