By JONATHAN SNYDER
Bids for concrete used in sidewalk and curb improvement projects were opened in the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting on Tuesday.
Two bids were opened and read, with KBL Transport in Portland having the low bid. Their details included ADA ramps at $2,350 each, $65 per lineal foot for both standing and roll curbs, $18 per square foot for sidewalk concrete and $20 for concrete drives and approaches six inches deep. JL Wilson Construction in Ossian’s bid was over $1,000 more expensive for ADA ramps, with curbs, sidewalk and approaches prices at over double and in some cases triple what KBL bid.
The Board of Works did not approve any bid at the meeting, but Board member Josh Hunt mentioned that when they do, the prices will remain stagnant for the calendar year.
Additionally, the board voted to extend their agreement with Christopher B. Burke Engineering, whom has provided support for completing permit activities so Bluffton can follow Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System requirements. The document has not changed over the last year, with Burke continuing to review and assess Bluffton’s programs to identify things and activities that count towards complying with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Mayor John Whicker described Burke as “good to work with,” and that there’s still a lot of things to do with the MS4 agreement.
Furthermore, the board approved a water bill adjustment for Landyn Wilson on 321 West Horton St. Wilson stated that an underground pipe was leaking throughout December and January. She was notified of the leak on Jan. 25, when she immediately called a contractor and fixed the pipe on Jan. 26. The bill, over the two-month period, rocketed to $1,400, which the board cut in half.
The board also approved a request to close some roads on July 13 for the 4-H 5K race. The race will be held from 7:30-8:30 a.m. The route will be the same as last year’s run, with Spring, Johnson, Portman and Clark Streets all closed during that hour.
The board also mentioned that the vacant city engineer position has been posted and they are waiting for applications. Scott Mentzer was also present for Tuesday’s meeting.
jonathan@news-banner.com
