Road reconstruction on Mclean Crescent in Cache Creek is now officially on hold until Spring, but the paperwork doesn’t stop.
The project’s consultants, McElhanney Consultants, have asked for a 10 per cent increase in funds for what they say was increase inspections caused by incomplete specs on the road.
“We've had to defer completion until next Spring because of weather conditions,” administrator Dan Plamondon told Council at its Dec. 8 meeting.
Most of the $93,881 has already been paid out, he said, with a hold back.
“With the amount of problems they’ve had, it's probably justified,” said Coun. Her Hofer.
First time Councillor David Dubois was more hesitant to approve the increase. “They put in a competitive bid,” he pointed out. He said he’d like to see the contract before approving an increase.
“I have tabulated that we have about $7,000 in work to do because of the spring delay,” said consultant Pam Astbury. “This is mostly site inspections for the concrete sidewalk, asphalt and driveways. The completion date was to be Nov. 17, but the weather changed on us and we have no choice but to wait ntil the spring for a quality installation.”
“Did the Village request any extra inspections?” asked Mayor John Ranta.
“When someone makes a bid where they should have anticipated these things and they didn't, some of the extra cost falls on the bidder,” said Ranta. “But I'm not that mean spirited.”
He suggesgted splitting the difference. Dubois suggested increasing the allowable fee by $2119 to top up their shortfall.
Council agreed that the remaining $7,000 can be discussed with the consultants at the end of the project.
“Basically, we’ll pay them what they asked for,” said Coun. Wyatt McMurray. “The rest will be discussed later.”