In a recent meeting held by the Tamworth NH Selectmen on December 5, 2024, the discussion centered around the sole bid received for the construction of a new bathroom, which came in significantly higher than anticipated. The bid, submitted by RWN Properties, totaled $250,000, exceeding the original cost estimate of just under $200,000 provided by Sanborn Head. This situation has prompted the Selectmen to explore several options moving forward.

The Selectmen expressed disappointment over receiving only one bid despite a notable interest from various contractors. The limited response raises concerns about the competitive nature of the bidding process, particularly given the high cost associated with the project. The Selectmen outlined four potential paths: accepting the current bid, negotiating with the bidder for a lower price, rebidding the project to attract more contractors, or hiring a construction manager to oversee the project and potentially reduce costs.

The discussion highlighted the implications of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which include $100,000 earmarked for the transfer station. If the current bid is not accepted, the funds allocated for the bathroom may be redirected to other budgetary needs. The Selectmen noted that the timeline for utilizing these funds is flexible, allowing for a thorough reassessment of the project.

One innovative suggestion involved employing a construction manager who could manage the bidding process for subcontractors, potentially leading to lower overall costs. This approach has been successfully implemented in other municipalities, where it resulted in significant savings compared to traditional bidding methods.

The Selectmen also acknowledged the importance of local contractors and the possibility of involving them in the project, should they choose to pursue the construction management route. However, they emphasized the need for a transparent and competitive process to ensure fairness and compliance with legal standards.

As the meeting concluded, the Selectmen were tasked with weighing these options carefully, considering both the financial implications and the community's needs. The decision on how to proceed with the bathroom construction will be pivotal, not only for the immediate project but also for the broader context of fiscal responsibility and community development in Tamworth. The Selectmen plan to reconvene to discuss the feedback from USDA regarding the project specifications and to finalize their approach in the coming weeks.