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Council renews Synagro contract for biosolids hauling and land application
Summary
The council approved a contract with Synagro to haul and land-apply biosolids from the Hancock Wastewater Treatment Plant at an amended unit price of $48.21 per cubic yard for an estimated 3,300 cubic yards per year; staff said Synagro was the sole bidder.
The Freeport City Council approved a multi-year contract with Synagro Central to continue hauling and land-applying biosolids generated by the Hancock Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Manager Boyer explained that biosolids are the dewatered residual from normal wastewater treatment; Synagro coordinates with area farmers to apply biosolids as fertilizer and maintains the legally required records and reporting to regulators. The existing contract expires in December 2025, and staff reported Synagro was the only bidder in a solicitation of four Midwest companies.
Under the amendment adopted by council, the price is adjusted to $48.21 per cubic yard for the term effective Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2028, with an estimated annual volume of about 3,300 cubic yards. Director Richter stated the city paid Synagro roughly $123,000 in 2024 for these services. Council members asked for details on the overall cost and the treatment process; staff said chemical treatment for producing biosolids is part of normal plant operations and separate from the hauling agreement.
Alderman Sanders pressed staff on contractor staffing, financial oversight and whether the contract includes information on contingency costs; staff replied that unit prices were provided in the packet and that prevailing-wage requirements have reduced the pool of potential haulers. Council approved the resolution authorizing the Synagro contract unanimously.
