Committee recommends approval of $400,000 utility budget amendment and emergency declaration to let DOT contractor replace deteriorated water main

The Finance Committee on June 9 recommended two linked actions: a Stoughton Utilities operating-budget amendment for approximately $400,000 to fund replacement of a water main between King and Kings Lynn, and a separate resolution declaring an emergency so the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) contractor may replace the pipe without a separate city bid process.

Adam, speaking for Stoughton Utilities, said the pipe was found to be older than anticipated, with two breaks since the DOT project began. "It's actually cast iron, very poor condition, very pitted, very um corroded," Adam said, and staff recommended replacing the main before DOT paves the roadway. The cost presented was $400,000 to be performed by the DOT's contractor; Adam said paving and road-base work are covered by the DOT project and the $400,000 covers pipe labor and materials.

On the emergency declaration, staff said Wisconsin bidding law allows emergency procurement where public health or welfare would be endangered; they told the committee they lack time to run a public-bid process and cannot use a separate city contractor because the work must be coordinated with the DOT project. Committee members asked about inspections and warranties: staff said DOT typically warranties projects for one year, Stoughton Utilities will inspect every piece of pipe installed and the city will hire an engineering consultant to be on site daily during installation.

The committee moved, seconded and recommended both the budget amendment and the emergency declaration to the Common Council.

Next step: Council consideration of the budget amendment and emergency declaration; if approved, the DOT contractor will proceed with replacement under the warranty and inspection regime described by staff.