Commission approves consent agenda; public-works director explains well-rehab change-order process

The Manhattan City Commission approved its Nov. 4 consent agenda by a 5–0 vote, with Mayor Karen McCullough noting that item F‑1 would be moved for separate discussion.

Before the consent vote, Commissioner Susan asked about the city manager’s cap for approving change orders tied to Consent Item E‑1. City Manager Dublin asked Public Works Director Randy DeWitt to explain the well-rehabilitation process. DeWitt said the city typically bids a maintenance contract that covers chemical treatment, pulling and inspecting wells and then obtains repair quotes after inspection because repair needs are unknown until the well is pulled.

DeWitt said per-well repair estimates commonly range from about $12,000 to $25,000. He explained that because those costs are uncertain, they are not included in the initial bid; the city manager’s $50,000 threshold can cover maintenance of critical utility infrastructure, but the initial bid exceeded that threshold so staff brought the item to the commission for transparency.

The commission approved the consent agenda (except F‑1) on a 5–0 roll-call vote.