ITEM: 12.4 ADMINISTRATION - Robert Therres, Public Services Manager
Title
AUTHORIZE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH BARR ENGINEERING CO. IN A NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $22,000 IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR PROPOSAL DATED FEBRUARY 24, 2012 FOR A WELL SITING STUDY FOR WELLS 18 AND 19 (IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 11-08)
Background
In 2003/2004, Barr Engineering Co. completed a preliminary well siting study and ground water flow model for the City in order to identify general areas within the City which were favorable for future wells to accommodate increased water demands as the City grew. The study identified areas around Lexington Avenue and 125th Avenue (northeast area) and Lexington Avenue and I35W (southeast area) as favorable locations for future wells.
To begin the process to accommodate the increase in water demand from development expected to occur in the near future in the northeast area and to facilitate the transition of well 7 from seasonal use to emergency use, the Engineering Department requested a proposal from Barr Engineering Co. for a well siting study to assist the City in developing a plan for the northeast area well field, starting with siting for wells 18 and 19.
The study has five main goals:
· Determine sites for wells 18 and 19 so the City can begin the preparation of plans and specifications for construction of the wells.
· Provide a qualitative assessment of the total capacity of the well field to see if it can likely produce the desired amount of water for a future water treatment plant on the water tower 4 site.
· Identify potential sources of contamination that might affect siting of wells in this area.
· Estimate the impacts of the proposed wells and well field on nearby existing wells.
· Estimate the impact of the well field on water levels beneath nearby wetlands of concern.
Staff feels that Barr Engineering Co. has the necessary professional expertise and familiarity with the groundwater and geology of this area to provide a cost effective plan for successfully siting future wells to serve the water needs of the City of Blaine.
Recommendation
By motion, authorize City Manager to contract with Barr Engineering Co. in a not-to-exceed amount of $22,000 for a well siting study in accordance with their proposal dated February 24, 2012.