Town of Cheshire authorizes $80,000 addition to Lakeview Avenue culvert project

The Town of Cheshire Town Council on June 10 approved an $80,000 additional appropriation and authorized issuing up to $80,000 in bonds and notes to complete the Lakeview Avenue culvert replacement, citing higher-than-expected bids.

Town Manager Sean M. Kimball summarized the project and the reason for the increase, saying the original design and bids left a funding shortfall: “The bids came in at about $400,000 … higher … than we had available in the appropriation.” He told the council the appropriation increase is required under the town charter for projects over $250,000 and that the additional $80,000 will bring the aggregate project cost to $470,000.

The resolution authorizes the town to spend the appropriation on design, construction, equipment, demolition, engineering and legal fees, net interest on borrowings and other financing costs. It delegates authority to the town manager and treasurer to set bond details and names Pullman and Conley LLC as bond counsel. The resolution also declares the town’s intent to reimburse temporary advances from future bond proceeds if bonds are issued on a tax‑exempt basis under federal rules.

During discussion, council members confirmed bid details and contingencies. The project manager said five bids were received; the low bid was disqualified for omitting an important railing component and the next bid was substantially higher. Council members asked about the construction timeline; staff estimated the physical work would take about two months once started. The resolution passed unanimously of those present.

The council recorded that the reimbursement and borrowing procedures will follow Connecticut General Statutes sections cited in the resolution. Town staff said they will proceed with award and construction scheduling.