Consultant hired for assessment on bridges, culverts, roads in Minto

A bridge and culvert needs assessment and road needs study for the Town of Minto will be conducted by Triton Engineering Services at a cost of $24,500.

At the June 18 meeting, council chose Triton from among four companies who responded to a request for proposals (RFP) for the project.

While one of the proposals, from Gambsy and Mannerow, offered a lower price, $19,300, a staff report by public works director Brian Hansen notes Triton’s written proposal as “more compliant” with the RFP. The company was also the only one to address fleet and equipment considerations, the report states.

The other two proposals both quoted higher prices for the project, with BM Ross and Associates quoting $26,700 and KSmart coming in at $59,300.

“The main difference between the firms were cost, form of final report for the roads needs study and technological outputs,” Hansen explained, noting that “All four firms have worked for the municipality and are capable of doing quality work and have good relationships with staff.”

Bridge assessments must be completed every two years, according to provincial requirements.

A recommendation to award the project to Triton passed unopposed, with Mayor George Bridge, deputy Mayor Terry Fisk and councillors Mary Lou Colwell, Dave Turton, Ron Faulkner and Ron Elliott voting in favour. Councillor Rick Hembly was absent from the meeting.