R2011-143 ACCEPTING THE BID AND AUTHORIZING CONTRACT

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roots will grow to fill the pipe, trapping solids and impeding flow, thereby creating sanitary sewer backups and overflows. The project consists of the application of a root herbicide to retard and kill root growth present in the targeted sewer lines. The herbicide chemical is combined with a foaming agent that is applied by means of jetting equipment to coat the inside of the sewer pipe. Foam fills the pipe and causes the herbicide to cover and stick to any tree roots that it comes in contact with. The herbicide proceeds to kill the roots that are in the pipe and within a short distance of the outer wall while leaving the main tree structure undamaged. The effects of the herbicide generally last between 2 to 3 years. Project locations have been determined through the evaluation of televised sewer inspection reports and videos. The herbicide root control program is intended to supplement root cutting work performed by City maintenance crews. Using a root herbicide will extend the service life of the pipe because continual root cutting will damage the sewer and when roots are cut they grow back thicker, larger and stronger eventually breaking the joint or crack the root originally penetrated through. One application will not solve all future root intrusions in the pipe as the roots will grow back so future applications will need to be made to continually remove roots. The time between applications can be extended with a continuous program. Project Bid Review The project plans and specifications were prepared by Engineering Division staff. The project was advertised Wednesday, August 3, 2011, and bids were opened on Wednesday, August 24, 2011. The results for the letting are as follows: Compared to Bidder Bid Price Engineer's Est. Over(-Under) National Power Rodding Corp. $83,369.02 (-25.16 %) Duke's Root Control, Inc $89,955.43 (-19.25 %) Engineer's Estimate $111,397.33 ---- National Power Rodding Corp., from Chicago, Illinois, provided the low bid for the proposed work. This Company has completed several successful projects for the City. Staff recommends that the City Council approve a contract with National Power Rodding Corp. to perform the 2011 Sanitary Sewer Herbicide Root Control project. POTENTIAL OBJECTION: There are no known objections to this resolution and bid award. INPUT FROM OTHER SOURCES: None STAFF REFERENCE: Richard Marley, Public Works Director and Matt Newell, City Engineer. Richard Marley will be at the City Council meeting to answer any questions of the Council on this item. Page 12