Town to reissue bids for park/ballfield projects; grantor expects visible progress this year

Town staff told the Audible Town Board they will put excavation and individual building bids out for the new park and ballfield after a prior contractor could not meet schedule expectations. The work the board discussed includes dirt work, concession stands, a pavilion and a sprinkler system for the ballfield.

Courtney and staff described recent design work that now allows the town to issue procurement documents. As one staff member said, the state contact "did mention ... your project needs to be well underway and showing significant progress" by the grant deadline. The board discussed procurement timing, contractor availability and whether engineered site plans were required; staff reported that engineered plans were not required by the state for the grant, though the town will confirm final deliverables with the grantor.

Councilors recommended issuing bids for excavation and the two buildings as soon as possible and bringing results to the next meeting for award. For the sprinkler system staff suggested contacting a local vendor to expedite installation if the estimated procurement threshold would complicate a competitive bid. Members also discussed water‑line sizing and pressure concerns in relation to sprinkler design and park elevation.