The City of Gardner Council convened on November 4, 2024, to address several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the Wynwood Park Relief Sewer Project. The meeting commenced with no planning and zoning consent, committee recommendations, or old business, leading directly into new business discussions.

The first item on the agenda was the consideration of awarding a construction contract for the Wynwood Park Relief Sewer Project, designated as WW8010. Mr. Meyer presented the proposal to award the contract to Site Right Construction Company for a total of $2,605,599.75. This bid was the lowest among seven received during the bidding process, which concluded on October 18, 2024.

Mr. Meyer explained that the city staff, along with Lamp Wright Nearson, conducted a thorough review of the bids and received positive feedback regarding Site Right's previous work. He emphasized the importance of moving forward with the contract, suggesting that the council accept the low bid and authorize the city administrator to execute the contract.

During the discussion, a council member raised a question regarding the significant difference between the low bid and the engineer's estimate of approximately $4.6 million, as well as the higher bids from other contractors. Mr. Meyer addressed these concerns by noting that Site Right's bid included lower costs for specific line items, particularly in rock excavation and the method of installation for the sewer line. He explained that Site Right had experience with similar projects in Gardner and was confident in their ability to complete the work as proposed.

The council engaged in further dialogue about the bid's competitiveness and the rationale behind the pricing differences, particularly regarding the method of boring under major roads versus open-cut installation. Mr. Meyer reassured the council that Site Right's approach was well-considered and that they had provided satisfactory responses to all inquiries.

The meeting concluded with the council's decision to proceed with the contract for the Wynwood Park Relief Sewer Project, marking a significant step in the city's infrastructure development efforts. Further discussions and follow-up actions will be anticipated in future meetings as the project progresses.