Council awards $190,050 contract for Jim Terrell Park canoe and kayak launch

Milford City Council voted March 18 to adopt Ordinance 24‑274, awarding the Jim Terrell Park canoe and kayak launch construction contract to Loveland Excavating and Paving at a cost not to exceed $190,050.

City Manager Michael Doss and the Community Development Committee presented bid results and recommended awarding the base bid plus two alternatives (resurfacing Longworth Street and using grass pavers to help maintain green space connections to the concrete boat launch). Committee discussion noted funding partly comes from the state of Ohio and a Community Development Block Grant through Clermont County; staff said they were seeking permitting and clarification to utilize the block grant funds.

During committee remarks, a council member warned of problems at another nearby launch: "They put the canoe launch in, which ended up being 10 feet shorter," said Mr. Velardo, referencing a previous project and urging attention to usable launch length at low water levels. Staff acknowledged the concern and said the launch will be measured in the spring to ensure functionality.

The ordinance text cites the city engineer's recommendation and states council found Loveland Excavating and Paving to be the best and most responsive bidder considering price, quality and past performance. Council suspended rules, read the ordinance by title and adopted it by roll call. Recorded votes were in favor across the council.

The ordinance authorizes the city manager to execute the contract consistent with the bid documents and requires the work be performed in accordance with the bid specifications. The ordinance takes effect immediately upon passage under the charter section cited in the text.