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Lake Wales staff outline public-works projects, contractor changes for library renovation and sewer work
Summary
Public Works Director and city staff briefed commissioners on FDOT maintenance agreements, a Marietta Street sewer main replacement recommended for Lopez Underground, fencing replacement at the rapid infiltration basins, and a draft $255,000 Simco proposal to finish library renovations after quality issues with the prior contractor; staff said Qualys Construction will cover most of the expense and the city's net impact is expected to be about $80,000 or less.
City staff provided a multi-item public‑works update that included traffic-signal and highway-lighting maintenance agreements with FDOT, a sewer main installation on Marietta Street, replacement fencing at the rapid infiltration basins (RIB) site, and an update on library interior renovations.
Public Works Director Sarah Kirkland summarized two resolutions to maintain the city’s compensation arrangements with FDOT: an amendment to the traffic-signal maintenance and compensation agreement that updates inventory and compensation and a separate State Highway lighting maintenance and compensation agreement covering State Road 60 and 27. Kirkland invited questions but none were raised during the work session.
Kirkland described the Marietta Street sewer main installation project, noting some field sections were too deteriorated for camera inspection. Three contractors submitted pricing; staff recommended Lopez Underground Construction because the firm visited the site and identified plan improvements that reduce risk despite a slightly higher price than the lowest bidder.
Kirkland also said fencing around the RIB site on Raymount‑Martin Road is in disrepair and recommended replacing the fence to prevent trespass and make the site safe.
On library renovations, staff described longstanding quality-control problems with the previously awarded contractor (Qualys Construction). Staff said the city agreed to part ways with Qualys, that Qualys Construction has agreed to pay for rework, and that the city is considering a $255,000 proposal from Simco Construction to complete and rework the project. "The majority of those funds are being paid directly to Simco from Qualys Construction," staff said, adding the city's fiscal impact will be in the "$80,000 or less" range and that the funds are not over and above previously approved contract amounts.
Fire Department staff also presented a shortlist of seven general contractors qualified to respond to a follow-up bid for Fire Station No. 3; the commission was asked to accept the shortlist so those companies can submit bids.
Support Services Captain Stephanie Gorick told commissioners the five‑year Axon contract covering body‑worn cameras and tasers (implemented in 2021) is due for renewal and that the renewal would encompass both systems.
Why it matters: these items affect near‑term capital work and maintenance obligations, contractor selection and the city's fiscal exposure for a major interior renovation project.
