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Boyne City awards Call Street reconstruction to Tri County Excavating after low-bid debate
Summary
After engineers opened four bids, Tri County Excavating — the low bidder — argued for award and commissioners, after confirming local references, approved awarding the Call Street reconstruction contract to Tri County. Public commenters urged strict adherence to low-bid stewardship.
The Boyne City Commission awarded the Call Street reconstruction contract to Tri County Excavating (low bidder) March 9 after a public exchange about procurement and fiscal stewardship.
Tri County's representative attended the meeting to present references and argue that the city has a fiduciary duty to accept the lowest qualified bid. Commissioners and staff discussed the narrow margin between the low bids, cited references, and reviewed past work by both Tri County and the recommended firm. Staff recommended Tri County based on bid price, references and local performance.
Local residents and business owners at the meeting said awarding to the lowest qualified bidder preserves public funds and encourages future competition. Commissioners noted the importance of improving procurement procedures — including pre-bid meetings and broader outreach — so more firms participate on future projects.
The commission approved the award and authorized the city manager and clerk/treasurer to execute necessary documents. The motion included the staff recommendation and recorded the bid amount as shown in the public bid opening.
Why it matters: Reconstruction of Call Street addresses a heavily used local road and represents a significant capital expenditure. The award also exposed concerns about procurement practices and the need to demonstrate stewardship of public funds.
Next steps: Staff to finalize contract documents with Tri County Excavating and coordinate construction scheduling and notifications to residents.
