Council approves GCCM delivery method for wastewater biosolids project to meet tight timeline

The Kalispell City Council voted to adopt findings permitting the use of an alternative project delivery contract — the general contractor–construction manager (GCCM) method — for the city’s wastewater treatment plant biosolids treatment and disposal project.

Keith Haskins, assistant director of public works, summarized the council’s February work session and recommended GCCM rather than traditional design-bid-build for the complex project. Haskins said GCCM allows the city to bring a contractor into the design phase to establish a guaranteed maximum price, coordinate construction sequencing so plant processes remain operational, and plan preconstruction work that can accelerate the schedule.

Haskins told the council the approach helps manage complicated tasks such as removing and disposing of tanks, relocating equipment that must remain in service during construction and other methods that can shorten the online date. Staff recommended approval so the city can secure a contractor and final price before its agreement with Glacier Gold expires in September.

Councilors supported the approach as a way to protect the city from material-cost volatility and to improve the likelihood of completing the project on time and on budget. Councilor Dowd and others cited a previous GCCM use at North Valley Hospital that lowered overall project costs.

The council approved Resolution No. 6243 by roll-call vote (unanimous). Staff said the resolution establishes the required findings under Montana law to permit the GCCM method and that subsequent procurement will follow state requirements for alternative project delivery.