Council awards stormwater and sidewalk contracts; approves financed purchase of police vehicle

Norworth Borough Council voted July 15 to award public-works contracts and to authorize a financed purchase of a new police chief vehicle.

Contracts: The council approved two contracts to Albert G. Chipoloney Jr. & Sons Inc., awarding $78,688.85 (not to exceed) for stormwater bump-outs and $148,950.75 for the sidewalk restoration base bid with a $525 contingency amount. Staff said the bump-out contract had nine bidders and that the selected contractor had performed prior work satisfactorily. Council approved the awards contingent on execution of contract documents and provision of required bonds and insurance; both motions passed 7–0.

Police vehicle: Council also authorized a financed acquisition for a replacement chief’s vehicle at a total cost of $60,899.14 under a finance agreement. Staff said the new vehicle would be acquired with a low current down payment ($479) that transfers title and possession now, with payments deferred until July of next year as budgeted in the capital improvement plan. Staff added that the existing 2011 Crown Victoria is no longer reliable, and the borough plans to decommission and sell it once the new vehicle is in service. The motion to proceed with acquisition passed 7–0.

Council members and staff said they will ensure contract execution requirements (bonds, insurance) are met before work begins and that the vehicle financing was already included in the capital plan.