The Superior Common Council approved a package of procurement and project items April 18, including engineering services, road maintenance materials and several construction contracts.

Public Works Director Todd Janigo recommended awarding engineering services for the municipal service building improvement (phase 1) to Master Architecture LLC for $42,500, with an option for later construction observation and administration services estimated at $10,250. Janigo said the selection was based on qualifications and scope, not solely price, and the council approved the award; funding for the larger building project is from the city’s capital improvement program (CIP).

The council approved routine public-works purchases: hot mix asphalt materials from Northland Constructors or Monarch Paving (based on price and availability), pavement marking services to Farner Asphalt, an asphalt milling contract to WK Construction for about $38,829.56, and gravel and sand purchases from various vendors. The council also approved a waiver of bidding requirements to buy one 2017 Chevrolet Equinox from Ewald Automotive Group via the Wisconsin state bid for use by environmental services/engineering staff.

On an infrastructure item, council approved awarding reinforced concrete piping and related materials; the low bidder was reported at about $35,400. Janigo explained FEMA would pay 75% of eligible costs, the State of Wisconsin 12.5% and the city 12.5%, and that the city will be reimbursed after paying upfront.

Parks and Recreation Director Cadotte brought a Wisconsin Point Committee recommendation to close the gate to Shaffer’s Beach from May 1 to June 15, 2017 for a Piping Plover protection project; the council approved the closure. The council also approved a requested sidewalk closure for the Superior High School addition after a presentation by Kraus Anderson and LHB that described pedestrian rerouting, on-site policing of pedestrian detours, parking impacts and a groundbreaking scheduled the next morning. The clerk noted the local ordinance requires council approval for sidewalk closures longer than three days.

All listed motions passed by voice vote or roll call where recorded.