Residents may be relying on private plows this winter, as Clarskton City Council considers privatizing snow services.
To save money, City Council members Chuck Inhabnit and Kristy Ottman have considered privatizing Department of Public Works for several months.
‘With these trying times, it would be irresponsible for us not to look at privatizing as a responsibility to our citizens,? said Inabnit. ‘The citizens of this city have certain expectations how they expect the services to be and performed. If we were to privatize we would expect the same service.?
A ‘pre-bid meeting? for a three-year contract for snow removal was this past Friday at city hall. Four companies bid for the job.
‘Right now we’re just looking into it,? said Inhabnit.
They discussed labor, materials, type of equipment, supplies, services, and insurance, including workers’ comp and liability.
Bob Pursley, DPW director, told all bidders vehicles and equipment will need Michigan of Department of Transportation inspections. Pursley said he usually plans on 150 tons of salt for the city each winter.
‘That’s a pretty good happy medium,? he said. ‘If you use less, then you are ahead. If you use more, then you’re behind.?
They doubled salt usage last year, he said.
‘In 2006/2007, we used 99 tons, costing $3,600,? he said. “In 2008, we used 172 tons, which cost $6,800.”
Bids will be accepted at City Offices, 375 Depot Road, until 2 p.m., Sept. 10. All bids should be delivered to city clerk/treasurer office in a sealed envelope. The outside of the envelope should have the bidder’s name, address, phone number, and the project’s name ‘Snow Removal Bids.?