Trustees approve one‑year Campo Brothers extension contingent on competitive bid next year

The Grosse Ile Township Board voted 4–2 on June 23 to extend the township’s excavating contract with Campo Brothers for one year, contingent on the contractor’s acceptance, and directed staff to competitively solicit bids thereafter. The motion followed lengthy debate about fiscal best practices, local vendor performance and risk.

Trustee Kevin moved to put the township’s excavating services out to competitive bid; other trustees proposed a compromise: a one‑year extension if Campo Brothers would accept it, with the township committing to advertise and bid the contract no later than eight months before the extension ends. Supporters of rebidding cited municipal best practices and the Michigan Townships Association’s guidance; trustees who favored extending the current agreement noted the contractor’s long service, prompt responsiveness and the present favorable rates compared with uncertain market bids.

Trustees discussed contract history: the original agreement began with a multi‑year term and included optional one‑year renewals; if extended now, the contract will have covered several years under the same rates. Trustees asked staff to present the original proposed three‑year extension pricing alongside future bids when they are received.

Why it matters: The excavating contract covers water main and service repairs, trenching and sewer work—the township’s ability to respond promptly affects residents’ water and sewer service and emergency repairs. The board’s compromise preserves continuity while requiring a market test.

Ending: Staff will confirm Campo Brothers’ willingness to accept a one‑year extension; if accepted, staff will issue a competitive solicitation and return results to the board for comparison.