Carroll City approves $11,334 change order and deadline extension for high‑service pump project amid contractor delay concerns

Carroll City Council approved a change order and time extension on the high‑service pump No.1 replacement project after staff said upsizing suction piping would improve pump performance.

Randy, an agency official, told the council the recommended change order increases the contract by $11,333.75 and raises the contract price to approximately $459,337.50 as stated in the meeting. He said the piping change reduces head loss and lowers the pump’s risk of cavitation: "The pump will operate... but we're afraid cavitation of the pump would occur," Randy said.

Councilmember Jason pressed staff on recurring change orders and contractor accountability, saying the council sees frequent post‑award increases and that this project is roughly a year past its original completion date. "It's so frustrating," Jason said, questioning whether the city can enforce penalties or seek legal remedies.

Staff responded that liquidated damages are in the contract but collecting them requires proving actual damages to the city; they noted some projects do not produce measurable damages when delayed. Randy said the contractor had begun work in the last month after earlier inaction and that staff had granted the deadlines after discussion with the contractor.

Council voted to approve the change order and the revised schedule. Staff said they would document any additional costs for potential recovery at final payment and would return to council with supporting documentation if reimbursement opportunities arise.

The council also discussed procurement options for future projects to reduce the frequency of change orders and consider contractual remedies; staff said outcomes vary by project depending on underground conditions and the design range.