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Mayor backs stadium repairs; council waives RFP to contract JW Industries for bleacher work
Summary
Facing a summer schedule and a denied FEMA reimbursement request, the committee approved using donated and city funds to repair flood-damaged bleachers at Hart Park Stadium and waived the RFP to contract directly with JW Industries (NTE $130,700). Staff warned proceeding could forfeit FEMA reimbursement; the city is appealing FEMA's denial.
The committee approved a waiver of the competitive process and a Level 3 fund transfer to contract directly with JW Industries to repair flood-damaged bleachers at Hart Park Stadium.
The superintendent of parks and forestry said JW Industries built the bleacher system originally in 2009 and recommended contracting them directly to reduce risk of long-term compatibility problems. "JWI is the the company that built the bleacher system originally in 2009," the superintendent said, adding that the firm could also strengthen connections and add flood venting as an option. The not-to-exceed contract amount presented to the committee was $130,700, with flood vents listed as an add alternate of about $25,000.
Finance staff cautioned that proceeding without competitive bids may jeopardize FEMA or state reimbursement. The finance director said, "It is likely we are foregoing the ability to be reimbursed by FEMA, because FEMA requires bidding with no exceptions." Staff explained they are appealing FEMA's denial but argued that delays would risk losing an entire athletic season and associated revenue.
The mayor told the committee a $1,000,000 private donation was made to Hart Park repairs and said the donor had given the mayor discretion over its use; he signaled that the donation would help prioritize stadium repairs. Alder Phillips moved approval of the staff recommendation; Alder Gustafson seconded, and the committee approved the waiver and contract by a 7–0 vote.
Staff said bid documents for turf and track repairs are being finalized with a goal to solicit bids in January and have construction complete by May for the regional track meet; the stadium repairs with JWI are expected to be done earlier so the facility can be used in spring. The committee recorded the vote and directed staff to proceed while continuing the FEMA appeal process.
