Where to cut bilge pump wires?

[jpcarter]

I need to replace the forward bilge pump on my '07 X2. The wires are accessible for about 12-15" coming off the pump through center access port in the center of my cabin floor.

Questions
1) Do I cut and splice in the new pump's wires there, or is there a better position for the splices somewhere I haven't seen?
2) Recommendations on waterproofing the splices?
3) Should I replace it with the same model? (Rule-Mate 750)

TIA!