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Southfield council awards $2.2 million contract to replace library HVAC systems and hires OHM for contract administration
Summary
Council approved a $2.2 million construction contract to replace the library's air-handling units and server-room chiller and authorized OHM Advisors to administer the construction phase (hourly, NTE $42,000). The bid review found one low bidder withdrawn for missing electrical items; funds are available in the library building improvements account.
Southfield's City Council voted July 20 to award a $2,200,000 contract to C & J General Contractors to replace the library’s air-handling units and server-room chiller and to authorize OHM Advisors to provide construction-phase contract administration on an hourly basis not to exceed $42,000.
Council heard from city staff and an OHM representative that sealed bids had been evaluated from three contractors and that the initial low bidder, Conti Mechanical Contractors, requested to withdraw after staff determined the contractor had omitted electrical materials from its proposal. Staff said C & J was reviewed for prior experience and capacity and was judged qualified to perform the work. The total project cost estimate listed in staff materials was $2,280,911; staff confirmed available funding in the library building improvements account.
The administration said OHM would perform construction-administration services under the city's existing contract with the firm and that no reimbursable expenses were expected. The council moved to authorize OHM to perform contract administration and separately to award the construction contract to C & J; both motions passed on voice votes with council members answering 'Aye.'
Staff told council the project responds to an energy-modeling review that found insufficient cooling capacity and airflow in the library building. An earlier phase replaced a failed chiller; the current work replaces additional mechanical components to improve temperature control and airflow.
Council members asked questions about the bid review process and the missing line items in the withdrawn bid. Outside counsel and staff explained the review steps taken to confirm the apparent omission and the decision to proceed with the next qualified bidder. The administration said it will continue to check references and contract compliance during construction.
The council's action authorizes the mayor and city staff to move forward with contract execution. Staff said construction oversight and the contract amount will come from the library building improvements account; no additional levy or borrowing was discussed at the meeting.
