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Council hears detailed update on Cedar Street wastewater delays and accepts $20,000 donation
Summary
Council was told Cedar Street sewer replacement encountered railroad and buried-utility complications that added substantial costs; a local developer donated $20,000 toward the project and staff will return in January with final agreement terms.
Mayor John Williams and city staff reported that the Cedar Street wastewater replacement proved far more complex than the original straight-line plan, citing delays working with the railroad and unrecorded utility mains.
"We paid $42,000 for a right of way on that line," the mayor said, and staff described inspector and flagging charges that together created tens of thousands of dollars in unanticipated costs. Staff said the low bidder (COP) offered a favorable price but that the railroad complications and additional utility lines turned the short replacement into a difficult, more expensive project. The mayor told council a written agreement will be presented at the first January meeting for final approval.
During public comment, Jim Atchison, representing Southeastern Montana Development, handed the council a $20,000 check toward the Cedar Street work. "I'm happy, mister mayor, to bring a check of $20,000 on the Cedar Street project," Atchison said, describing the project as "a pain" and offering the donation to help cover costs.
Council directed staff to return with the numbers and the draft agreement at the January meeting; no final contract vote was taken at this session.
