Council authorizes up to $36,329 for road salt under state contract; MDOT reimburses M‑19 salt use

The Richmond City Council authorized the city to purchase 650 tons of road salt through the state purchasing program at a contract price of $55.89 per ton, authorizing an expenditure up to $36,328.50 for the 2025‑26 winter season.
City staff explained the city participates in the state MiDEAL program (city staff referred to the state contract) and must take a minimum of 80% of ordered tonnage; the contract also allows the city to take up to 120% of the order at the same price. The council authorized the city to order 650 tons, which would require a minimum take of 520 tons under the contract terms; staff noted the city used more than anticipated last year and had been allowed to take slightly over 120% to meet demand.
Public Service Director Jim Gutzinger said salt used on state trunkline M‑19 and the application time for that route are charged to MDOT and reimbursed by MDOT. He also confirmed the city’s new salt barn holds about 350 tons of salt on site.
Council approved the motion and directed expenses to the DPW salt purchases line in the general fund.