Township Awards McCahon-Nemeth Drain Tender
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - The township has finalized the tender process for the McCahon-Nemeth Drain project, awarding the contract to Monden Excavating after a competitive bidding process. The decision came during the council meeting on April 17, where Andrew Neely, the Drainage Superintendent, presented the tender results to the mayor and council members.
The tender for the McCahon-Nemeth Drain, managed by Spriet Associates Engineers & Architects, was issued on February 26, with the closing date set for April 2. The engineering estimate for the project was pegged at $56,920, excluding HST. Monden Excavating presented the lowest bid at $42,850, significantly under the estimated cost, with Edgar Excavating following at $46,522.
In his report to council, Neely highlighted the strong interest in the project, noting the diversity of bids received as a positive outcome for maintaining cost-effectiveness and transparency in municipal spending. "We had a very good uptake on this; many different bids coming in, which is a good thing for accountability and keeping costs as reasonable as possible," Neely stated.
Councillor Martin Vink inquired about the apparent increase in new contractors bidding on township projects, to which Neely suggested that it could be reflective of broader economic conditions, although he admitted the exact reasons were unclear.
Councillor Mark McGill further probed the role of Spriet Associates in the tender process. Neely confirmed that the firm was responsible for preparing tender documents, reviewing submissions, and ultimately recommending the lowest bidder deemed suitable for the project.
The council's approval of Monden Excavating's bid was moved by Councillor Vink and seconded by Councillor Choi. After a brief discussion, the motion carried unanimously.
The awarding of the McCahon-Nemeth Drain tender marks a significant step forward in the township's ongoing infrastructure enhancements.
This project, which was scheduled to begin on April 20 and conclude by June 1, 2024, is expected to improve drainage systems crucial for local land and road maintenance.
David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Middlesex Banner
