11-17-83 S&W Comm MinutesNovember 17, 1983
The Sewer & Water Committee met on this date at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers to again
review bids for the sewer cleaning machine. Attending were Chairman Ruiz, Mayor McDowell,
Councilman Nystul, City Attorney Neier, Jeff Hughes, Ron Anderson and Vic Schroeder of
the Water Department, Duane Daubenberger of Hall Perry, Jack Pieri of Aquatech, Bruce Ward
and Bill Kipp of Flexible Pipe Tool, Luigi Di Guippe and Robert Upton of Plains Power &
Equipment. These three firms represented the lowest bids, high bidder (Cues, Inc) was
unable to attend.
Hughes stated that since the last committee meeting he had reviewed all bids with former
DPW Haffermn. Much time was spent considering fuel consumption rate for the various
machines. The three considered were Vactor gas -diesel, Vactor diesel -diesel and Aquatech.
Hafferman's opinion beyond that, was that bids should be re -advertised. Hughes recommenda-
tion was for the Vacto demo diesel -diesel. He stated that the new machines met specs, but
felt this machine goes beyond that.
Dealers were invited to support or challenge that theory and discussion followed re
recirculation features (specs for demo model inadvertently did not include this item but
it is standard on demo machines). All commented on water recycling re operational costs
based on abrasive nature of the water and maintenance of the filtration system.
Guarantees , one vs two engine machines, fuel consumption, engine performance and the
disadvantages of a single engine running full force constantly causing unneeded wear
and overheating to the engine ; warranties on various items, parts and servicing were
all discussed at length.
Chairman Ruiz felt that this most recent information, plus any other the dealers would
have available, will be considered by the committee and the personnel involved. Since
all bids were within the budgeted amount, the concern is not only for initial cost but
also operation over long duration.
Mr. Upton stated that this is the first time he was low bidder, his machine is quality
merchandise, can have parts here in 24 hours. The reason for the demo being low is
simply because he can pass on a good buy to the city. He stated that he would be willing
to have a head to head demonstration to compare other machines to his, if the Counicl is
willing.
Chairman Ruiz announced that a decision would be be reached by early December and all
dealers would be advised of that decision.
Meeting adjourned at 4:58.
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