NORWICH – City officials have accepted a New York State loan in the amount of $850,000 needed to replace two pumps that were badly damaged at the wastewater treatment plant by heavy flooding and debris in the aftermath of September’s storms.

The city applied for a no-interest loan through the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) under its Hurricane Emergency Loan Program (HELP) to provide the necessary funding to follow through with work at the plant. This loan, according to city officials, can be reimbursed over the next five years by currently pending FEMA assistance and money from the city’s insurance company to help with the financial burden.

In October, the estimated cost of parts and repairs came with a price tag of $815,440, but an additional $34,881 is needed to cover other costs including electrical work, disposal of the existing pumps and extra financial flexibility in the event something goes wrong in the process – bringing the total cost to $850,321.

The damaged pumps have been in constant use for 20 years. Because of the age and extent of their use, they are not covered under any type of warranty. The city had the option of purchasing used, retrofit parts to refurbish the damaged pumps but saw it as more a disadvantage as used parts come without a warranty or guarantee, leading them to agree on the purchase of new.

Mayor Joseph Maiurano said the repairs at the plant are essential and can’t be held up by delay from FEMA and the insurance company.