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Wixom council approves $563,928 contract to coat elevated water storage tank
Summary
The city authorized a professional services proposal from Utility Services Company Inc. for internal and external coating of the elevated water storage tank at a cost not to exceed $563,928, funded from a capital reserve account. Council discussed timing, logo leases and water‑quality protections.
The Wixom City Council approved a professional services agreement with Utility Services Company Inc. of Perry, Georgia, for design, painting and inspection services for internal and external coating of the city’s elevated water storage tank at a cost not to exceed $563,928. The council authorized the city manager to sign the agreement and directed staff to proceed with permit applications.
Why it matters: Staff told the council an inspection last November identified significant corrosion on the back (south) side of the tank. The recommended work includes a 100% solids internal coating intended to extend the life of the tank and reduce corrosion, removal and reinstallation of an internal mixing system, and external repainting. City staff said performing internal and external work together reduces mobilization costs and can shorten overall downtime for the facility.
Funding and permits: The project is to be funded from capital reserve account 591537971.41. Staff said an eight‑week lead time will be needed to secure the state permit to work inside the tower, and they aim for mobilization in September if permits are received on schedule.
Bidding and procurement approach: Council members asked why the city did not solicit competitive bids. Staff said the proposal is a turnkey package — including engineering, coatings, and inspection — offered by a vendor with prior experience on the city’s mixing system and an ability to handle permitting and inspection. Staff said the engineering and inspection costs are included in the proposal.
Logo leases and revenue considerations: Council discussed the tank’s existing logo/lease arrangements. Staff said the company with the current logo pays an annual fee and has one outstanding invoice; staff said they will negotiate an early termination and reimbursement for repainting costs and bring any agreement back to council. Council members expressed a preference not to place the city’s logo on the freeway‑facing (south) side if doing so would reduce future leasing revenue; staff noted the project could accommodate up to two logos on sides of the tank and that repainting over a logo could be covered by a future lease agreement.
Water‑quality and coatings: Staff said the 100% solids coating will adhere better and last longer, reducing corrosion and the likelihood of leaching or sediment inside the tank. Council members asked whether past occurrences of ‘‘floaties’’ or sediments following water‑main breaks were related to coating condition; staff explained those sediments are typically due to scouring when lines are disturbed and that the city performs seasonal flushing.
Outcome and next steps: The council approved the agreement by voice vote; the motion passed with four members voting in favor (mayor absent; one council member excused). Staff will pursue the state permit, finalize contractual terms that address the existing logo lease, and schedule mobilization when weather and permitting allow.
