Town staff recommend three-year paving contract with Peckham; price holds below market

Staff informed the board that Peckham (formerly GMI) is willing to offer the town a three-year paving contract covering 2027–2029 at a price of $84.95 per ton. That rate represents a $12.60 per-ton increase from the prior contracted rate of $72.35, but staff noted current spot-market prices are nearer to $98 per ton, so the three-year agreement would still provide a budget hedge.

Board members asked staff to contact other local contractors (including R and D) for comparative quotes before committing. ‘‘The price per ton, they kept for 6 years without a change was $72.35 a ton,’’ staff said, noting the new negotiated figure ‘‘goes up $12.60 per ton to $84.95’’ while market prices are higher. Staff will follow up and return with additional bids and a recommendation.