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Council awards 2025 mowing contract to Knott's Landcare after concerns about low bid
Summary
The council awarded the 2025 Mowing and Landscape Maintenance Contract to Knott's Landcare of Amherst, N.H., for $142,500. Directors and councilors discussed the wide range of bids, vendor capacity and prior contract-performance issues before approving the award 6-1.
The Bedford Town Council voted to award the 2025 Mowing and Landscape Maintenance contract to Knott's Landcare of Amherst, N.H., at $142,500 after hearing from Public Works Director Jeff Foote and extended discussion about bid variance and vendor capacity. The motion passed 6-1.
Public Works Director Jeff Foote told the council the department received six bids after issuing a request for proposals in December, with totals ranging from $142,500 to about $249,000. "The lowest bid that we received was from, Knotts Land Care, of Amherst, New Hampshire. They've been in business for 21 years. They have 45 employees and apparently are capable to manage the effort that the town put out to bid," Foote said.
Councilors pressed the department on the disparity between the lowest and highest bids and on vendor reliability. Multiple councilors recounted past experiences when low bidders did not finish the season, requiring the town to reassign work and negotiate with higher-cost vendors. Councilor Becky Sowell said she had spoken directly with an owner of a mid-range bidder and learned that labor availability and employee retention affect local landscaping bid pricing.
Councilor Bill Carter moved the contract award and asked the town manager to execute the contract and include an extension clause if it is in the town's interest. Councilor Becky Sowell seconded. Chair Lori Radke called for a voice vote; one councilor opposed without naming a reason on the record. The chair announced the motion passed 6-1.
Foote said the contract funding will be allocated across several public works line items, including field maintenance, building maintenance, local roads and cemeteries. He also said the department will monitor vendor performance closely given prior instances where a low bidder failed to complete work.
The council did not authorize additional contingency spending at the meeting; members said they expect staff to report any performance issues promptly so the town can respond without delay.
