Board rejects single over-budget bid for water-monitoring stations; staff to pursue alternate procurement

Delta Coast Consultants (Corbin River speaking) told the board the water-monitoring station procurement returned a single bid that exceeded the district's capital-outlay funding and the engineer's estimate. The bid breakdown recorded in the transcript included a base bid of $784,853 and additive alternatives that together pushed the total well beyond available capital outlay funds. Staff recommended rejecting the bid and exploring an alternate procurement pathway that would separate equipment purchases from heavy-construction contracting.

Corbin said the initial procurement constrained the district to a traditional construction contract that required a heavy construction contractor's license, which greatly increased prices and limited competition for the equipment-heavy scope. Staff reported that the capital-outlay reviewer is open to reconsidering an equipment-procurement route, allowing the district to purchase equipment directly and perform installation through program partners/contractors.

The board voted to reject the bid and directed staff and consultants to pursue equipment quotes and other procurement options to avoid further delays and reduce cost. The transcript records the motion to reject the bid, and the motion passed. Staff said they will return with procurement alternatives and updated cost information for board consideration.