Council approves geotechnical contract for Whitetail Solar Farm; transcript shows conflicting dollar amounts

The Escondido City Council approved a contract award to Giles Engineering for a geotechnical evaluation related to the Whitetail Solar Farm project. In the staff presentation the amount was stated as $14,860, while the motion recorded on the floor was for $14,008.60; the transcript records both figures and does not resolve the discrepancy.

Administration reported the geotechnical scope was publicly bid, the recommended firm was the low, compliant bidder, and preliminary wetland evaluation work is complete. The transcript notes that photovoltaic modules for the project have arrived and that clearing at the site is finished.

A council member moved and seconded the motion (motion language in the transcript records $14,008.60). Roll call recorded in the transcript shows affirmative votes by Duarte, Moore, Bauschau (spelling per transcript), Afloff and Mary Amal; the motion was recorded as approved.

The administration described the project as proceeding on schedule and expects staff to finalize the geotechnical contract and continue preconstruction steps. The item drew no public comment during the hearing.