Shabbona board hears two engineering firms and delays hiring decision

The Shabbona Village Board on Thursday heard hour-long presentations from two engineering firms seeking municipal work: Farnsworth Group and Will/Hoffman Associates. Each firm outlined services from grant application support to design and construction observation as the board weighed its options for replacing an expired contract with Chastain.

Farnsworth representatives emphasized grant work and communication, saying the firm will “be transparent” about billing and project touchpoints and will build needed paperwork into agreements. Will/Hoffman highlighted regional offices, municipal experience and technical capabilities across water/wastewater, transportation and surveying. Chad Clawson of Will/Hoffman introduced the team and stressed proximity to the village as a benefit for construction oversight.

Board members pressed both firms on fee structures, travel charges, quality-assurance processes and who would be the daily contact. Farnsworth described assigning a project captain and maintaining in-house QA/QC; Will/Hoffman said it designates a single client contact and brings specialists as needed. Officials did not make a final selection; members agreed to continue deliberations at the next meeting and to ask firms for follow-up proposals if needed.

“It’s important that we have clear communication and practical solutions,” a Farnsworth presenter said, adding that the firm seeks repeat clients and long-term relationships with small communities. The board also discussed whether to adopt a master services agreement or engage firms on a project-by-project basis.