Tri-Town Board of Water Commissioners

TRI TOWN BOARD of Water Commissioners Braintree, Holbrook, Randolph Braintree Town Hall MINUTES May 11, 2017 PRESENT: Chairman, Joseph Sullivan, Mayor, Town of Braintree; David Murphy, Town Administrator, Town of Randolph, Timothy Gordon, Town Administrator, Town of Holbrook. IN ATTENDANCE: Jim Arsenault, Lou Dutton, Fred Hanson, Paul Gabriel, Barbara Mello, Joe Reynolds, Mike Walsh, and Robyn LaFrance. Mayor Sullivan opened the meeting at 2:00 pm. Rich Brewer was not present and Dave Murphy served as the Randolph representative for this meeting. Bid Results for Great Pond Dam Project: Barbara Mello, Mike Walsh.  Michael Walsh presented the results of bids that were received on April 28. The low bid was $250K lower than the next lower bid. CDM Smith checked references and determined that the low bidder (D&C Construction) has the equipment, manpower, and experience to complete the job satisfactorily. CDM Smith contacted D&C Construction, who said that they really wanted the job and therefore bid very aggressively. They are disappointed that they left so much money “on the table”, but they stand by their bid.  Dave Murphy had a couple of questions concerning the low bid by D & C Construction Co. related to the material price and the unit price. Discussion followed.  Tim Gordon asked for clarification on the total project cost. Barbara Mello provided a breakdown of engineering and construction costs, and of available funds. She explained that there is only $3,799.50 remaining for a contingency fund. Mike Walsh explained that cost estimates were originally done in 2014. Since then, costs have increased. This has reduced the amount of funds available for a contingency. Normally, we would prefer to have a 5% contingency, or approximately $50K.  There were comments about the cost and the fact that dam work has never been done and this will last a lifetime. Mayor Sullivan indicated a preference to move forward, especially given the aggressive bid that we received. The work will have to be done eventually, and this will likely be the lowest price for the work.  Tim Gordon raised concerns on behalf of Rich Brewer with regard to discrepancies in dam safety ratings. CDM Smith had rated the dam in poorer condition than a subsequent engineering firm. Dave Murphy acknowledged that they have discussed these concerns. Dave explained that Randolph understands that there are different versions of the dam condition report but the work needs to be done regardless.  Tim Gordon was not prepared to vote, and with Rich Brewer’s absence, there will not be a decision at this meeting on the award. 1 The next meeting is scheduled for May 18 at 3 pm at Braintree Town Hall. The agenda will include: 1. Minutes of April 6 and May 11 meetings 2. Award of Great Pond Dam Safety Improvements 3. EPG’s Engineering Services Agreement | Water Distribution System Master Plan MOTION: By Tim Gordon to adjourn meeting at 2:30 pm. SECOND: by Dave Murphy VOTE: Unanimous Respectfully submitted, Robyn LaFrance, Recording Secretary 2