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Richmond approves $501,302 contract to re‑erect Chaneykill fire tower; combines USDA earmark and ARPA funds
Summary
The Richmond Town Council awarded a $501,302 contract to Elevated Consulting to erect and site a new 60‑foot Chaneykill communications tower, using $165,000 in USDA funds and $440,000 in ARPA money to cover the balance and contingency. Councilors discussed scope, contingency use and USDA restrictions before approving the award.
The Richmond Town Council voted to award a $501,302 contract to Elevated Consulting to transport, assemble and site a 60‑foot communications tower intended to improve emergency communications in the Chaneykill area. The council authorized combining a $165,000 USDA earmark with $440,000 from the town’s ARPA allocation to cover the low bid and a construction contingency.
Town staff explained that the tower components are available and that the winning bidder’s scope includes site work, a new concrete pad, shelter, transport and installation. “It’s a 60‑foot tower. It’s gonna give us maximum emergency communication capability,” the police chief said, describing the tower and the expected secure enclosure and fenced equipment shelter.
Councilors pressed staff about how maintenance and recurring costs would be handled. Staff and the chief said routine upkeep (vegetation control and site access) is manageable for the town’s public works, while the Southern League of local fire districts retains shared responsibility. The administration noted there is no standing line in the annual operating budget for tower maintenance but that most ongoing work is infrequent and performed by DPW.
Funding for the project combines sources. The town will use $165,000 from a USDA allocation obtained with help from Senator Reid’s office; the council approved $440,000 from ARPA for the balance, leaving contingency dollars to cover potential change orders or additional site work such as driveway paving. Staff cautioned that USDA funds were originally requested for tower costs and may not be reallocated for unrelated projects without USDA approval.
Councilors debated whether leftover funds should be reserved for site improvements (pad or road) or reallocated to other high‑priority town needs; staff said any redirection of the USDA portion would require USDA signoff. After discussion of procurement timing and ARPA eligibility, the council approved the award and note of funding by roll call.
The council also approved an updated memorandum of agreement with the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) confirming land ownership and signatory responsibilities for the tower site. The administration said all required partners have already signed or are prepared to sign the updated MOA.
Next steps: staff will finalize contract documents with Elevated Consulting and proceed with scheduling and site preparation under the approved funding plan.
