Porter awards $104,137.79 contract for chopper pumps, seeks quotes for mini-excavator and trailer

Development and public works staff updated the council on several capital and maintenance items and brought items for action.

Mike reported the CCMG paving project is complete with a final cost of $342,546.86, below the bid. He requested authorization to add new business to address failing equipment at the North Bailey lift station, where one of two pumps has been out of service for months. Two bids were reviewed; Woodruff submitted the low quote of $104,137.79 to replace the pumps, while Grimmer quoted $148,500. The council voted to award the contract to Woodruff to install chopper pumps to reduce maintenance and avoid clogging problems.

Public Works Director Jamie asked permission to solicit quotes for a mid-size '50 series' mini excavator to handle ditching and routine maintenance; council members amended the motion to also allow Jamie to request quotes for a replacement trailer and optional forester head attachment so the town can compare bundle and a la carte pricing. The amended motion to solicit quotes for the machine, trailer and attachments was approved.

Mike also told the council that two projects submitted to Representative Moran's office were approved by the House Appropriations Committee and, if approved by the Senate and the president, would yield roughly $746,000 toward a Waverly Road sewer project estimated at $1.1 million. The council was advised to wait for confirmation before beginning design work.

The council approved the chopper pump contract and the solicitation plan for equipment quotes.