Niles council authorizes several purchases, a solar impact study, and grant-funded turnout gear

NILES, Mich. — The Niles City Council on Aug. 26 approved a series of procurement and service agreements covering utility services, equipment, software, studies and firefighter gear.

Council authorized a Purchase and Service Agreement with Midwest Energy Cooperative and permitted the mayor to sign the agreement after a motion by Councilmember Timothy Rogers. The electric division was authorized to engage Commonwealth Associates, Inc. for a solar generation system impact study at a cost of $25,000, charged to Professional Services. The Utilities Wastewater Division accepted a quote for two 20-yard roll-off dumpsters from Superior Equipment, LLC for $9,998 and awarded a wet well cleaning and grit removal contract to Perceptive Service & Operations for $17,250. The electric division was authorized to purchase a rewound 300 kVA transformer from T&R Electric for $20,895.

The council also authorized purchase of miExcel UB software (initial $4,000, annual support $450) for the Utilities Department and approved a three-year lease with Matt Warda to farm city-owned property at 440 Pucker Street. The Fire Department was authorized to purchase turn-out gear and boots from Phoenix Safety Outfitters at a cost of $35,000, with the minutes noting the expense will be covered by a Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity grant. Councilmember Georgia Boggs commented the department receiving new gear was "impressive." All motions on these items carried by roll call vote.

The minutes record each award and the listed contract amounts; staff materials and formal contracts will govern execution and payment.