Sewer District authorized small PCAB amendment; RFQ process set for Drifting Ridge infrastructure work

Kevin Gorman, Executive Director of the Sewer District, told the Public Works Committee that a small contract amendment is needed for the PCAB (process control administration building) demolition because asbestos was found in window caulk during preliminary testing. The amendment totals $2,585 — $2,185 for the abatement subcontractor and $400 for engineering fees. The committee moved to authorize the Sewer District Executive Director to sign the amendment; Gorman said no budget amendment was required.

Gorman also explained that a solicitation originally issued as an RFP was converted (by addendum) to an RFQ to align with federal funding requirements; respondents were instructed not to submit fees. Based on the evaluation of qualifications, Gorman said the top three firms are KB Engineering, Suozzo, Doty & Associates, and Labella. He plans to request fee proposals from those firms and to return next month with a recommendation.

The Drifting Ridge project covers replacement of forced mains and pump station work in the Drifting Ridge community and the Argyle Street pump station in King Edward Knolls. Gorman said he expects a $660,000 county infrastructure grant award (similar to Whitehall last year) and that the remaining roughly $660,000–$670,000 would be covered by a BAN; bonding authorization up to $1.5 million was previously secured. He said he will report any changes to Finance if the funding picture shifts.

The committee adopted the authorization for the PCAB amendment and discussed the RFQ/procurement approach for the larger infrastructure work.