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Council approves Curtis Environmental contract for lab testing after budget questions
Summary
The council authorized a one-year contract with Curtis Environmental Services Inc. for estimated annual lab services of $55,484; Curtis described prior interim work for the city while staff explained testing is required for the water/sewer plant license and that the cost is covered in the operating budget.
The Hammond City Council approved a resolution March 24 authorizing the mayor to enter into a contract with Curtis Environmental Services Inc. for laboratory testing and related services in an estimated annual amount of $55,484.
David Curtis, representing the company, described Curtis Environmental as a state‑certified lab and a family business that provides lab testing, environmental consulting and wastewater operations. He said the firm started work for the city in March on a purchase order to help bridge a service gap while the RFP process ran.
Council members asked several procurement and budget questions: why the previous contractor was deemed non‑responsive, whether the work was already included in the water and sewer operating budget, and whether internal reviewers (including the department consultant) had evaluated the proposal. Staff explained one bidder had substantially altered RFP specifications and was therefore deemed non‑responsive; staff also stated the laboratory testing is required for the city's sewer treatment plant license and that the expense is covered under the water and sewer operating budget (plant operations/contract services or laboratory services line items).
After discussion, the council voted to authorize the contract by roll call.
