Council awards $62,520 contract for Fourth Avenue sewer line; 20% contingency approved

The Timnath Town Council on June 10 approved Resolution No. 45, Series 2025, awarding a contract to Aspen Grading and Excavating for the Fourth Avenue sanitary sewer service line project. The contractor’s low proposal was $62,520; the council authorized a 20% contingency, bringing the total authorization to $75,024. The resolution passed unanimously, 5-0.

Public works staff said the project completes conversion of the last three Old Town properties still using septic systems. Director Steiner (presenting the item) identified the three properties as the Rights property (west), the Alberico property (middle) and the Martin property (east). Staff described the work as sanitary sewer service line installations routed along Fourth Avenue; two contractor proposals called for a combination of directional boring and open cut to minimize surface disruption.

The town’s engineer estimated the project at $78,922, which staff noted was close to the low proposal. Director Steiner recommended award to Aspen Grading and Excavating and requested a 20% contingency because of uncertain subsurface conditions (local hardpan and other unexpected soils) that can raise excavation costs.

Council members asked whether the 20% contingency was sufficient; staff said it was within the typical upper range and that budgetary capacity exists. One council member noted the broader multi-year investment in Old Town infrastructure: staff reported roughly $14 million spent on Old Town projects over the past 15 years.

The resolution directs public works to proceed with the contract award and construction; council approved the motion by majority and the project is authorized to proceed under the contract terms.