HomeMy WebLinkAboutA001 - Council Action Form dated October 13, 2026ITEM #:48
DATE:10-13-26
DEPT:W&PC
SUBJECT:WATER TREATMENT PLANT SPLIT TREATMENT MODIFICATIONS
PROJECT
COUNCIL ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
The Water Treatment Plant (WTP) is implementing split treatment modifications to improve
water treatment processes. In a "split treatment" process, a portion of the raw, untreated water
is intentionally bypassed around the solids contact basins and blended back together with the
softened water later in the process. This blending method is a highly efficient way for the plant
to achieve the desired final water hardness, pH, and stability.
By bypassing a portion of the water around the softening process, the plant
significantly reduces the quantity of chemicals required for pH adjustment and
stabilization, ultimately lowering overall operational costs (estimated at $122,000
annually) while still achieving the same hardness and pH characteristics as are
currently being delivered to customers. There will be no noticeable change in the
chemistry or the taste of the finished water. The split treatment process occurs before
the disinfection stage of the treatment process occurs, meaning this approach does not
affect the safety of the finished water.
To facilitate these operational modifications, new piping, pumps, and electrical controls
must be installed within the facility. Staff has prepared detailed specifications for a
qualified contractor to complete this work.
On August 25, 2026, City Council approved preliminary plans and specifications for the Split
Treatment Modifications at the Water Plant project. An Invitation to Bid was issued in
AmesBids by Purchasing. A legal notice was published on the websites of a contractor plan
room service with statewide circulation. On September 23, 2026, three bids were received as
shown below.
BIDDER COST
Staff Construction Estimate $245,000
Orchard Inc.
Grimes, IA $182,800
OnTrack Construction, LLC
Nevada, IA $215,570
Wendler Inc.
Cedar Rapids, IA $235,000
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Staff evaluated the bids and determined that the low bid from Orchard Inc., of Grimes, IA, is
acceptable.
The authorized budget for this project is carried over from the FY 2023/28 CIP (Water Plant
Facility Improvements, originally budgeted at $130,000 and subsequently amended to
$245,000).
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Accept the report of bids, approve the final plans and specifications, and award a
contract to Orchard Inc., of Grimes, IA, in the amount of $182,800.
2. Award a contract to a different bidder.
3. Do not award a contract at this time.
CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The proposed project will implement modifications that will reduce operational costs
while maintaining identical water quality as the current process. Approving the contract
with Orchard, Inc. will allow staff to move forward with implementation of the Split Treatment
Modifications at the Water Treatment Plant. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the City
Manager that the City Council adopt Alternative No. 1, as described above.
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