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Council approves purchases of transmission poles and primary conductor amid market volatility
Summary
The council approved purchases of steel transmission poles and primary electrical conductor totaling about $1.36 million; a council member noted new tariffs on imported copper and urged quick action to secure supplies.
Council approved purchases for electric system materials that staff said are needed for ongoing projects. Alex (presenter) recommended awarding a bid to WESCO for steel transmission poles in the amount of $402,013.72. Separately, staff recommended purchasing 65,600 feet of primary conductor from Westco Distribution at $959,939.80 for use on capital projects. Council approved both items. During discussion, a council member (identified in the record as Battles) raised a recent tariff change: staff and council referenced a July 9–10 announcement of a 50% tariff on imported copper that has driven futures prices to record highs. Battles urged quick action, saying the department’s procurement timing was prudent in light of the market spike. Staff said these procurements support replacement and construction work described by the electric department and that bids were presented at the Tuesday work session prior to council action.
