Rocky River reviews urgent WWTP purchases after bidder default; equipment repair contract proposed

Council reviewed two wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) procurement items on June 8 after staff described an operational urgency.

Councilmember Moran said a vendor that had bid $1.89 per gallon for sodium hypochlorite (used in disinfection) later declined to honor its bid; the WWTP subsequently obtained a lower quote of $1.81 per gallon from Bonded Chemical, Inc. He described the purchase as necessary for summer operations and noted the plant needs reliable supply to avoid operational problems. Mayor Bobst said the city’s legal consultant for the WWTP had been consulted and recommended moving forward with new legislation to secure supply.

Moran also described a quote from Huber Technology, Inc., to repair screening equipment used at the WWTP. The quoted repair cost is approximately $115,117 for specialized parts and services; Moran requested an authorization not to exceed $140,000 to provide contingency if additional work emerges. He said the equipment is uniquely configured and replacement would be far more expensive, and funds are available in the capital budget for failures of this type.

Council indicated support for addressing the operational needs but signaled additional review and final action at a subsequent meeting. Mrs. Morris noted prior related legislation and did not oppose moving toward a post-second-read vote if rules are suspended. No formal vote to award these purchases was recorded during the June 8 legislative session; staff said further discussion and possible finalization would occur at the next meeting.