At the Aug. 25 Cortland City Council meeting, members discussed Ordinance O-47-25, a first reading to authorize additional project funding for a second change order on the West Main Street waterline replacement project with contractor Teekay Excavating.

The ordinance is a first reading and was presented by the service director. During council discussion, a member sought clarification on whether the ordinance authorized work up to the stated amount and whether a subsequent change order would record the actual final cost. A speaker read from the ordinance language and clarified, “This one is not to exceed $30,000.” Council members noted the measure will receive multiple readings so additional questions can be addressed at subsequent meetings.

Why this matters: the West Main waterline replacement is an active capital project; change orders affect final project cost and budget planning. A low bid for the overall West Main contract cited earlier in meeting materials was reported in public remarks as $878,881 to Teekay Excavating; the new contingency would authorize additional unforeseen work estimated up to $30,000 pending further documentation.

Council asked staff to provide detailed line items for the proposed contingency and indicated the item will return for additional discussion and potential amendment before final passage. No final vote on the funding authorization was taken at the first reading.

Next steps: council expects further information and a final change-order amount to be presented at a subsequent meeting where members can vote on any ordinance adopting a binding supplemental appropriation or contract amendment.