Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Water Rates topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council tables water-rate study award after cost questions
Summary
Council delayed awarding Contract 321 for a mandated water rate study after members raised concerns about a $39,800 bid versus lower proposals and a $20,000 state grant; the tabling motion passed 5–1 and the item will return in August for review by the incoming city manager.
The City of Milton-Freewater City Council voted on July 13 to table the award of Contract 321 for a water rate study until the August meeting so the incoming city manager can review the proposals. Public Works Engineering Technician Steven Patten told the council a five-member review panel ranked FCS Group highest and that FCS quoted $39,800 for a study Patten described as including detailed economic analysis and future rate projection spreadsheets. The state had estimated the study at about $20,000 and provided a $20,000 grant to the city, and one lower bid had been for $18,500.
Councilor John Lyon moved to delay the award for one month; Councilor Destiny Jensen seconded. Lyon said the price differential and the state grant merited additional review. The motion to table passed with Councilor Steve Irving casting the lone dissent. Patten confirmed a one-month delay would be acceptable to the recommended firm.
