The Grant Manager’s report notes that the City has submitted a National Rural Water Association grant request for between $100,000 and $200,000 to implement DOWL’s plan to purchase and install new backwash piping and an air gap mechanism at the Bethel Heights Water Treatment Plant. The goal is to avoid replacing the backwash shed, tank, and piping at an estimated $1,000,000, by instead completing a $300,000 targeted upgrade that reduces maintenance. This indicates a defined engineering concept for upgrades at the plant and an active effort to assemble funding.While the grant outcome is pending, the City will need design finalization, materials (piping, valves, structural supports, controls), and installation services once funds are available. Water‑plant contractors, mechanical firms, and control system vendors can begin discussing constructability, cost estimates, and potential phasing with the Grant Manager and Public Works, positioning themselves for future bids or task orders when the project moves into execution.

The alternative of replacing the backwash shed, tank, and piping would cost about $1,000,000; the City is pursuing a lower‑cost solution via grant funding.