NORWICH – The City of Norwich Wastewater Treatment Plant is preparing to spend a substantial amount of money for two new pumps to replace those damaged by heavy rains and debris in the aftermath of September’s flooding.

The two pumps, with freight, installation and warranty, come with a price tag of $815,440; city department heads are working with FEMA and their insurance company to reduce the city’s financial burden and though some assistance is expected, the city anticipates a fiscal impact of replacing the parts ,according to Department of Public Works Superintendent Carl Ivarson.

“When we live in a flood zone,” said City Mayor Joseph Maiurano, “we can expect something like this ... we’ve been hit pretty good in the last few years and we can’t prevent something like that from happening again in the future.”

Ivarson, along with other city officials and plant workers, met with FEMA early Monday morning to discuss what aid can be given. The damaged pumps fall under FEMA’s “public utilities” category; if approved, FEMA may pay up to 75 percent of the costs while the remaining costs are evenly split between the city and the state.

“If it’s approved, we will be responsible for 12.5 percent,” Ivarson explained. “The state would be responsible for the other 12.5 percent.”

In September, the pumps were submerged in nearly eight feet of water, causing grime and sand stone to damage the spinning mechanisms of the pump. Moreover, heavy waters washed away thin layers of oil needed to protect vital pieces.