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Tolland council waives bid process to let town lock in diesel and heating‑oil prices
Summary
Council unanimously adopted a resolution to authorize a bid waiver so the town and Board of Education can purchase diesel and heating oil for fiscal year 2026–27 when prices are favorable; staff said locking in current prices (about $2.60–$2.66/gal) could save an estimated $10,000–$20,000.
The Tolland Town Council voted unanimously on Jan. 13 to adopt a resolution waiving the competitive bid timeline so the town and Board of Education can pursue a bulk purchase of diesel and heating oil for the July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027 contract period.
"Prices are pretty good right now," said Mike Wilkinson, who helps manage fuel purchases for the town and Board of Education. "Right now, we're paying about $2.66 or around $2.60 for both products... we would save anywhere from 10 to $20,000 if we could lock in now." Wilkinson said annual usage is roughly 100,000 gallons of diesel and 70,000 gallons of heating oil for town and board operations.
Councilors questioned historical practice and gallons purchased; staff confirmed the figures apply to both the town and Board of Education. After brief discussion the council moved and seconded the resolution and approved it by voice vote.
Staff said the waiver gives the town flexibility to lock in favorable prices before the March bid cycle but they will not lock in unless prices remain attractive and market conditions justify it.
