Stickney Digester and Gas Piping Rehabilitation Bid 26% over MWRD Estimate

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) Board Meeting
November 16, 2023 

Board Action and Discussion:

• 23-1104  Com. Spyropoulos asked why the bid for the digester and gas piping replacement at Stickney came in 26% over the original estimate.  ED Perkovich said that the contract was to be completed over six years and the increase was attributable to inflation and labor costs.
• 23-1110  Com Davis wanted to make sure that when MWRD pays its 2024 dues to the US Water Alliance, that also it forward the District’s new PFAS policy to the group so that it may be read and hopefully adopted by other UWA members.
• 23-1088  The item awards a new security services contract to a contractor at Prairie Plan site in Fulton City.  Com Garcia wanted to make sure that we are seeking damages from the previous security firm that has not fulfilled its contract.  ED Perkovich assured the board that it was seeking damages.  With regard to the previous security firm, Pres. Steele reminded commissioners that if they separately receive a letter of concern that it should be forwarded to the entire board and staff.  She said letters from vendors should go to everyone, not just commissioners.  This item was deferred, then later returned to the agenda, then approved. 
• 23-1111  This item increases the amount not to exceed for payment to MWRD’s Federal lobbyist.  Com Garcia said that the Federal lobbyists represented a very high value to MWRD versus their cost.  Com. Davis agreed that they were invaluable in getting Federal monies sent to MWRD.

New Business: 

• Pres. Steele had just returned from a trip to Denmark to attend an EU water conference.  She will give a full report at a later date, but said the MWRD is acknowledged as a leader in water treatment by participants from around the world.  
• Com. Davis suggested that questions and then answered in writing be shared with the public, and he would welcome fellow commissioners’ thoughts.

Observer:  Amy Little            One Hour Board Meeting.  No Executive Session.  Absent:  Commissioner Brown