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Council weighs $40,000 proposal to run power to Cap Drive, raising potential $60,000 change order
Summary
City staff said a Maquoketa Valley estimate to run power as far as Cap Drive could add roughly $40,000 to $60,000 in up-front costs but could limit utility conflicts and be partly offset if a developer ties into the line within 10 years.
City staff told the council that running the new power line farther to Cap Drive during construction would reduce future conflicts with sewer and water work but would add to the project's price. "The cost estimate came in right right shy of 40,000 additional dollars on top of the original 24,000," a public-works staff member said during the meeting, noting the city could face a near-$60,000 increment if the extra trenching is included now.
Staff said the additional expense could produce partial payback over time: if a developer builds on adjacent lots and attaches to the line within 10 years, the city could recoup about $17,000 under current assumptions. Council members discussed whether to approve the work now as a change order or wait, weighing 20 —25-year infrastructure lifespans against the immediate budget impact. The council asked staff to get firmer line-location and trenching bids and to return with a recommendation.
