Trappe council approves $63,400 emergency generator purchase from local vendor

The Trappe Town Council on Sept. 11 unanimously approved an emergency purchase of a diesel generator and associated electrical work for a total of $63,400, using federal ARPA funds. Commissioner Jeremy Newnam moved to "use ARPA funds to approve the emergency purchase of a diesel generator as provided in the quote from Kelly Generator and Bilbrough Electric for the total amount of $63,400.00," and Commissioner Michael Sullivan seconded; the motion passed unanimously.

Town staff reported the replacement is needed because the existing propane generator at the town water tower is broken. Council minutes record that Kelly Generator supplied a quote for a Generac 130 kW unit at $54,500 with a 6–8 week delivery window, and Bilbrough Electric supplied an electrical-work quote of $8,900 based on Kelly's specifications.

The motion noted the council selected Kelly Generator because it is a local company, the Town already is under contract with them for generator services, and they are familiar with Trappe’s infrastructure. Council members Rose Potter, Jeremy Newnam and Michael Sullivan were present; President Schmidt called the meeting to order and the vote was recorded as unanimous.

Council members directed that the purchase proceed under the emergency procurement approved at the meeting. Bilbrough Electric also said it will need a site visit to provide a comparable electrical quote if the council chooses a different generator model or vendor; staff reported they had contacted five firms and received multiple quotes earlier in the meeting.

The special meeting began at 2:00 p.m. and adjourned at 2:38 p.m.; minutes were submitted by Town Administrator Erin Braband.