City approves $1.5M in payments for water projects including tank and treatment plant

During the December 11, 2024, City Council meeting in Mobridge, South Dakota, city officials discussed several significant construction projects and their associated payments, reflecting ongoing infrastructure development in the community.

The meeting began with an overview of two active construction projects related to the city's water system. The first project involves the construction of a new water tank, with two contractors, Preload and Crow River, engaged in different aspects of the work. Preload is responsible for building the pre-stressed concrete tank, while Crow River is tasked with constructing the transmission line.

City officials recommended approval for two payment requests from Preload. The first payment, amounting to $22,617.90, was delayed due to an oversight but was deemed necessary to keep the project on track. The second payment request for Preload was significantly larger, totaling $370,499.40, representing approximately 15% of the overall work completed. This payment covers various construction activities, including excavation and site preparation, which are crucial for the timely completion of the tank.

Crow River also submitted a payment request for $240,897.72 for materials that have already been delivered to the site. This payment is part of a unit price contract, allowing the contractor to receive funds for materials upfront, thus alleviating financial burdens during construction.

Additionally, the council addressed a payment request for $859,361.40 to Century Construction for work on the water treatment plant project. This payment includes costs for mobilization and equipment that the city had procured, ensuring that the project remains on schedule.

Beyond these payments, the council discussed ongoing warranty work at the wastewater treatment plant, which involves minor repairs to coatings on pipes. The contractor is currently coordinating with local resources to complete this work.

Another key topic was the water intake project, which is funded by FEMA. The city is awaiting approval on a biological assessment related to potential endangered species in the area. This assessment is crucial for moving forward with construction, as it may require inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to advancing critical infrastructure projects while navigating financial and environmental considerations. As the council anticipates further approvals, the community can expect continued progress on these essential developments in the coming months.