After months of discussion on how to address issues on Benson Lane, the Rushford Village Council took formal action on it at the Tuesday, August 8 meeting. Mayor Gordon Johnson and Public Works Supervisor Travis Scheck took opportunity to meet with Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) recently. The purpose was to discuss options for water retention or slowing prior to the Benson Lane crossing.
According to Johnson, there are several ponding areas or catch basins along the watershed prior to reaching the lane. “The question is, how many of them are physically able to hold water, if at all?” asked Johnson. He further indicated SWCD will be looking at maps to determine if some of these areas contribute to the water flow more than others. “There is monies available at the state and county level to help do some of theses repairs, is what understood,” added Johnson. “We’re still looking to see what that impact may be.”
A quote was submitted by Generation X Construction at the July meeting, but City Engineer Derek Olinger, of Bolton & Menk suggested some caution with the details. It was suggested Olinger meet with the contractor, Ryan Oian, to determine if certain aspects of the project were included in the quote.
“Generally speaking, I think he’s on par for the vision of what that project will look like a the end of the day,” said Olinger of the review. The quote calls for two 48-inch steel culverts, surrounded by concrete. Reviewing quantities, some numbers would need to be adjusted, such as aggregate backfill around the culverts. Another minor change would be a recommendation to upgrade the culvert material to a aluminized steel instead of galvanized steel. Olinger also noted access plans, during construction, are realistic.
The plans will be updated to mimic the slimmed down project. “We can make this work without affecting the 100-year flood level,” added Olinger. Next steps include seeking a second quote from another contractor and finalizing the contract for the project.
A performance bond will not be sought for the project, as Generation X, if chosen for the project, is a local company. The measure should save the project an estimated $1,000-2,000. The city will still require an insured contractor. A completion date and option for liquidated damages if not completed, will likely be included in the contract. Overages to the project will be capped at 10% of the total project cost or less. Formally committing to the project will take a public hearing, selection of the contractor, and final council approved on any funding.
Recommended funding option for the project remains a microloan from Minnesota Rural Water. The $60,000 project may also be paid partially out of the city’s existing funds or a transfer from another fund. $50,000 were in the appropriate fund for the project, but $15,000 has already been spent on engineering. “I think we might be able to pay for most of it ourselves,” said Johnson. “We may find ways not to have a loan. I think we should take the opportunity to research that.”
In other road news, the State Highway 30 project has been bumped up from 2022 to next year. Bolton & Menk spoke with the Minnesota Department of Transportation Project Manager, Richard Augustine, but details are not fully hashed out. The state is aware of drainage concerns, but is planning a mill and overlay to replace what currently exists.
Olinger suggest the city can mention concerns to the state. Scheck indicated they were largely for safety reasons.
Department of Natural Resources flood mapping has come back to the city for review. “How do they look?” asked Councilor Dennis Overland.
Clerk Mary Miner had little response. “I think it’s a waiting game.” A 30-day comment period is in effect.
The next regularly scheduled council meeting is Tuesday, August 21, at 7 p.m., at the Village Hall. The public is encouraged to attend.
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