Council authorizes $29,972.91 contract to install generator at Brookings wastewater plant

The Brookings City Council on Dec. 8 authorized the city manager to execute an agreement with Don Kirk Construction for $29,972.91 to install an emergency generator at the city—s wastewater treatment plant.

Mr. Kern, the staff presenter, told the council this is the second phase of a three-part project: the city previously purchased the generator and is now seeking installation. He said estimates were received from three local contractors, with the lowest bid from Don Kirk Construction at $29,972 and change.

Mr. Kern also described a related but separate fuel-tank project: the city is abandoning an underground tank in favor of an above-ground tank that has been purchased, but the installation cost may require a separate future authorization if it exceeds available estimates. On timing, Mr. Kern estimated it would take a few weeks for installation after the agreement is executed and another contractor would be engaged for startup/commissioning; he said, "I would think I'd probably give it 4 weeks before it's operational."

A motion to authorize the city manager to execute the agreement with Don Kirk Construction was made and seconded; council members voted and the chair announced the motion carries.

What the council approved: authorization for the city manager to enter into the installation contract with Don Kirk Construction in the amount of $29,972.91. The council did not direct immediate action on fuel-tank installation; staff said they may return with a separate request depending on final costs.

Next steps: staff will finalize the agreement with Don Kirk Construction and schedule installation and commissioning. The council did not identify additional contingencies beyond the potential separate fuel-tank authorization.