Council approves utilities contracts, supplemental appropriations and multiple easements

The Bowling Green City Council approved a package of utilities actions — including authority to advertise for lime sludge disposal bids, contracts for annual chemical supplies and insurance, two supplemental appropriations and several utility easements — during a regularly scheduled meeting.

Utilities staff said the measures are meant to ensure continued operation of water and wastewater treatment systems, cover higher-than-expected electricity purchases and secure rights of way for several upcoming distribution and stormwater projects.

The utilities director described lime sludge as "a byproduct of the softening and clarification process at the plant" and asked the council to authorize advertising for bids and contracts for removal. He said the city typically spends between $200,000 and $300,000 annually; "last year was $300,000," and, with increased material accumulation, staff proposed budgeting up to $500,000 in the 2026 budget to accelerate removals. The director said the contractor hauls the material from lagoons "in liquid form" and applies it to farm fields. The council approved Resolution 10-2025-01, authorizing the utilities director to contract for lime sludge disposal services. The motion passed on a roll call with Newlove, Jesse, Hogan and Susiek voting yes.

Council members also approved authorization to solicit contracts for annual chemicals used at the water and wastewater plants, coverage for underground and overhead lines insurance and the sale of scrap materials. Staff said the current contract term runs April 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026, and the proposed next term would run April 1, 2026,…