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Adelanto approves $1.03 million contract with Woodard & Curran to operate potable water system
Summary
The Adelanto Public Utility Authority approved a $1,028,236 professional services agreement with Woodard & Curran to operate the city's potable water distribution system; council members asked about PFAS treatment, funding and the firm's top priorities before the unanimous voice vote.
The Adelanto Public Utility Authority on July 30 approved a professional services agreement with Woodard & Curran, Inc. to operate the city's potable water distribution system, awarding a two-year contract totaling $1,028,236.
City Manager (unnamed) told the council the city issued a public request for proposals, received three complete bids, and selected Woodard & Curran as the lowest qualified bidder after interviews and negotiations. "This was a very difficult and deliberate process," the city manager said, adding that the contract is structured as a management-style agreement with pass-through expenses and incentives to keep the operator within budget.
The manager said the utility serves roughly 11,000 customer connections and that funds for the contract are available in the Water Fund (account 353-353051106); he recommended council approval of the agreement. He also introduced the firm's representatives who joined the meeting to answer technical questions.
Councilwoman Evans pressed the firm on PFAS treatment and funding. "PFAS is a little complex," the Woodard & Curran representative replied, describing a combination of operational treatment processes and engineering design work the firm has provided to other utilities. The representative said their "fiscal solutions" team identifies grants, low-interest loans and other financing options, and can advocate for earmarks in Congress as appropriate.
Evans said she appreciated the firm's materials and emphasized that "bringing in a partner again — I hope that you guys live up to what your website makes it appear that you will," stressing the community's need for a partner prioritizing water quality and equity. Council members also asked about the firm's goals; Woodard & Curran outlined priorities including proactive maintenance and asset management to extend equipment life, reduce emergency repairs and limit pressure on ratepayers.
Mayor Reyes moved to approve staff's recommendation that the Adelanto Public Utility Authority award the professional services agreement to Woodard & Curran; the council voted by voice and the motion carried.
The contract is for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The council did not record individual roll-call votes in the transcript; the mayor announced approval by voice vote. The council did not indicate any general-fund impact, and the city manager said available Water Fund resources would cover the contract.
The authority's representatives said they will work with public works and engineering staff to develop a capital improvement plan, pursue funding options, and provide community communications support regarding future rate or project needs.
