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Council denies single splash-pad bid, directs staff to re-solicit
Summary
Council voted to reject the lone bid for splash‑pad features and direct staff to issue another request for proposals; councilmembers debated timing, cost and vandalism risk.
The City Council on Oct. 14 voted 3–1 to deny the single bid received for splash-pad features and to put the project back out to bid. The vote followed extended council discussion about cost, the scope of work (features, electrical, pumps and filtration), available ARPA funding and vandalism risks while the site sits unused.
City Manager Chris Lopez told the council that the features-and-installation package from RainDeck totaled $437,678.68, with construction, contingencies and construction-management line items. Lopez said the project had been put out to bid three times; only one vendor submitted a proposal that met city and grant specifications.
Councilmembers expressed concern about making a large contract award when only one bid was received and said they wanted more information on the city’s ARPA balance before committing more funds. Council Member Creighton moved to deny the submitted bid and reissue the RFP; Council Members Clark, Ron Smith and Mayor Mark Hawkins recorded their votes supporting that motion (Council Member Creighton voted No on one recorded roll call earlier when a different amendment was considered). The motion to deny carried on the roll call recorded at the meeting.
Supporters of moving forward said delays can increase costs and that the project has been partly funded from previously allocated ARPA money; opponents argued the city should confirm available funds and address known vandalism and security issues before construction.
The council also discussed potential parking improvements tied to the project and asked staff to return with clearer numbers on ARPA balances, remaining obligations and a plan for vandalism prevention before the item returns to the agenda.
Ending: The council directed staff to re‑solicit bids for the splash‑pad features and to bring back updated budget and security information; no contract was awarded at this meeting.
