Council approves water department invoices and orders competitive bids for Hernando Street culvert repair

Council approved several water-department invoices and purchases and instructed staff to pursue formal competitive bids to repair a collapsed culvert on Hernando Street.

Water staff reported a stolen utility trailer (replacement cost about $4,212) and vehicle repairs for a work truck that were largely covered by insurance but required a city contribution. The council also approved an invoice for winter leak repair work (about $10,950) carried out to maintain water service during freeze conditions. Staff described a recent rise in equipment thefts at the water yard and said they would inventory and install additional security measures.

Public works staff presented an engineering estimate of $51,180 to restore a failed culvert on Hernando Street, describing alternatives (phased stone surface vs. immediate concrete top) and recommending licensed, bondable contractors. After discussion about procurement timelines and contractor availability, council directed staff to initiate a competitive bidding process and to return with sealed bids and a recommendation; the council also said the engineer (Smith & Wylie) would provide project observation and oversight if requested.

Separately, the council passed a resolution to route landfill tipping-fee proceeds and sanitation fees to the landfill and to reimburse the general fund for landfill payroll the city has been covering; staff framed the flow around a $491,000 landfill budget item and an existing East Arkansas Solid Waste District contract.