Article

The Village of Keremeos is exploring options to replace its aging centrifuge at the wastewater treatment plant due to increasing breakdowns. The centrifuge, over 20 years old, has shown a rise in gearbox failures, now occurring daily, reducing its processing capacity from a designed 6 cubic meters per hour to only 1.3 to 1.6 cubic meters per hour.

A complete failure could lead to sludge backup and potential fines for regulatory violations. The council approved a $61,000 budget for a replacement part but was denied a grant for a $700,000 full replacement.

Currently, a $20,000 gearbox replacement is under consideration, funded by the Growing Community Fund. An alternative proposal for a factory refurbished centrifuge, estimated at $250,000, would increase capacity by 75% and provide a backup system. Staff are seeking council direction on these options.