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Council approves sludge removal contract with Polecat LLC after staff recommends lower bid
Summary
Council unanimously approved a multi-year sludge removal and land-application contract with Polecat LLC, a bidder whose price was significantly below the average; staff cited closer application fields and thicker sludge handling as reasons for lower cost.
Westerville City Council voted unanimously to award the water plant sludge removal and land-application contract to Polecat LLC, the lowest responsive bidder, after public works staff described cost and performance factors.
Staff told council that three bids were received and Polecat’s bid was roughly 33% below the average of the bids and near $145,000 per year on the presented average. Staff said cost differences reflect companies’ relationships with nearby fields used for land application, and operational practices that reduce water content and haul thicker sludge. Polecat has previously done work for local water plants and, according to staff checks of references and site visits, has produced satisfactory results.
Council asked why Polecat’s price was so much lower; staff explained distance to application fields and dewatering practices were the primary drivers. One councilmember expressed interest in visiting the lagoon before work begins; staff said there will be opportunities during forthcoming lagoon repairs. The motion passed by unanimous roll call.
Roll call: Mayor Wright — yes; Mister Washburn — yes; Dr. Coombs — yes; Mister Grimes — yes; Vice Chair Reemschneider — yes; Mister Glasgow — yes; Chairman Hayek — yes.
