The council’s primary focus was on the consideration of Resolution 24875, which involved receiving bids and awarding a contract for the 2024 Street Improvement project. Ericson provided insights into the bidding process, highlighting that the council previously allowed for modifications, including an addendum to enable contractors to complete parts of the work in the following year. This aimed to mitigate risks associated with the short construction season. The project attracted seven bids, with A1 Excavating emerging as the low bidder at $1,475,560, below the feasibility study’s estimate of $2.7 to $2.88 million. This cost reduction was attributed to favorable bid prices and modifications that eliminated the need for storm sewer installations initially included in the project.

Two bidding alternates were discussed, one concerning trails within Verges Park, which were in poor condition. Ericson emphasized the importance of considering these alternates during project bidding to avoid higher costs if completed later. Upon evaluating Goodwin Lane, the council discovered significant cracks in the curb and gutter, leading to an alternate bid for complete curb removal. Ericson clarified that the presented bid amount was solely for construction and did not include additional costs such as geotechnical work, inspections, or surveys. He estimated the overall project costs would likely be closer to $2 million when all factors were considered.

Council members discussed the project’s scope and costs, with one member expressing concern about whether the bid amount reflected only a portion of the total project costs. Ericson confirmed that the city would not need to bond for the previously estimated amounts and would work with financial advisors to finalize the figures before their sale in October. He assured the council that A1 Excavating had a plan to begin the project this year and had already submitted the required bonds, enabling the city to move forward quickly upon contract approval. The discussion also noted A1 Excavating’s previous experience with a 2015 improvement project.

In other significant business, the council discussed the purchase of portable and mobile radios from Ancon Communications Inc. for $222,258. Chief Bower explained that the current radios, obtained in 2019, were nearing the end of their 12-year life span and were no longer supported by Motorola. He noted that the replacement was initially planned for next year, but ARPA funding necessitated the allocation of funds this year. The city had set aside $150,000 in its CIP budget since 2019 to assist with this purchase, with the remainder to be funded through ARPA. The order includes 25 portable radios, one base radio, eight mobile radios, chargers, additional replacement batteries, and necessary accessories. Bower emphasized the urgency due to operational constraints, particularly regarding encryption capabilities, and assured the council that they would be invoiced before the year’s end to comply with ARPA requirements. The resolution for the purchase was approved unanimously.

Additionally, Chief Bower introduced Logan Straying for the Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training Program as a cadet. A $50,000 grant from OJP allowed for hiring a college graduate for this accelerated program. Straying, who has a bachelor’s degree in water resources and currently works in water management, was identified as a strong candidate for this temporary full-time position, set at $22.67 per hour. His role is expected to last until April 1, at which point, contingent on successful program completion, he could transition into a full officer position. The council approved Straying’s appointment unanimously.

The council also acknowledged receipt of reports from various officers, boards, commissions, and department heads. Notably, a significant announcement was made regarding a Moody’s credit rating upgrade for the city of Wyoming to an AA2 rating. Lynwood attributed this upgrade to the council’s strategic financial management and strong reserves. He noted that this new rating could lead to lower interest rates during bond sales and recognized the city’s financial health. Council members expressed their gratitude for the staff’s hard work throughout the budget process.

During council reports, members shared their recent activities, including attendance at various meetings and community events. One member highlighted their participation in a fundraiser for the Special Olympics at Dunkin Donuts, noting strong community turnout and participation from local police and fire departments. Another member shared their experience at the Stamp Out Suicide event, which attracted over a thousand attendees.