Lamar Utilities Board meeting July 15, 2025

At the July 15, 2025 meeting, the Lamar Utilities Board approved purchase orders 630961 through 631010.  June’s electricity estimate to ARPA was in the amount of $635,214.53.  Third quarter property insurance to CIRSA was $78,237.58.  Payments to La Junta ($14,780.62), Holly ($5,382.00), and Las Animas ($18,932.79) for mutual aid during storms were approved.  Total for all purchase orders was $782,455.63.

Approved was a proposal by SD Myers for field services on transformers.  In May, SD Myers conducted the annual system transformers oil testing.  The oil test results indicated that the two 69kv load tap changers (LTC) acid and interfacial tension (IFT) results were abnormal and in need of servicing.  These abnormal reads indicate oxidation and sludge buildup. The test results also indicated a high liquid power factor for the T2 and T3 wind turbine transformers, which means a low dielectric strength that requires a hot oil clean procedure.  Total price of the project is estimated at $105,059.

Three bids were submitted for a 63-foot, 27,600 pound extendable pole trailer.  This is a budgeted item and will be used to transport any poles including the 69 kv, 70-foot poles.  The low bid from Reelstrong for $46,153.19 was accepted by the board. Reelstrong’s bid was significantly lower than the other two and has a delivery date estimate of 14-16 weeks.

Superintendent Hourieh’s System Operating Report stated that in continuous efforts to improve system reliability, the department is in the process of upgrading one mile of three phase, 25 kv line on the east end circuit between County Rd. 30 and 31 along County Rd HH.  The upgrade will include pole replacement with 40 foot class II ductile iron poles, 10 foot fiberglass crossarms, insulators, and line hardware.  The line crew replaced three 10 kva pole mount transformers and 50 ft. class I wooden poles that were damaged by high winds at county Rd. 17 and LL.  They also completed the installation of a new single phase, 25 kv, 15 kva service for a T-Mobile tower in Wiley.  The crew completed the annual ARPA bucket and pole rescue training that was held in La Junta.  The wind turbine crew completed the replacement of T-3’s rotor brake pads.

By: Barbara Crimond