During the City of Waterloo City Council meeting on July 21, 2025, significant discussions centered around change orders related to the Park Avenue and Eleventh Street Bridge projects. The council approved a total of $70,000 in change orders to install standardized light poles, ensuring consistency across the city’s infrastructure.

The meeting began with a motion to approve expenditures amounting to over $10.7 million, which was quickly followed by a request to discuss two specific change orders separately. Council member Mr. Bozen raised concerns regarding the substantial increases associated with these change orders, which were necessary to align the light poles with the city’s established standards.

City Engineer Mr. Deuce clarified that the original bidding process did not include the specific light poles due to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations that required generic bid items. This oversight meant that the city could not specify the poles initially, leading to the need for change orders after the fact. The change orders will allow for the installation of poles that match the city’s existing inventory, simplifying maintenance and replacement in the future.

Mr. Bozen questioned whether the higher costs were justified and sought clarity on the bidding process. Mr. Deuce explained that the decision to use standardized poles was strategic, aimed at reducing the complexity of inventory management for the Public Works Department. By maintaining a single type of light pole, the city can streamline operations and ensure that replacements are readily available.

The council's decision to approve these change orders reflects a commitment to maintaining uniformity in city infrastructure, despite the challenges posed by regulatory requirements. As the city moves forward with these projects, the focus remains on enhancing public safety and aesthetic consistency throughout Waterloo. The council anticipates further discussions on related infrastructure improvements in upcoming sessions.