Committee debates $250,000 mapping contract, rejects delay and approves Michael Baker International

The DuPage County Stormwater Management Committee voted March 3 to approve a contract with Michael Baker International to develop geospatial programming tools to integrate survey cross-sections into the county's floodplain mapping system, despite a motion to table the item until April.

Member Evans moved to table the contract, saying committee staff should explore free applications and “take a look at it a little bit more.” Sarah, a county stormwater/GIS staff member, responded that the project had been evaluated by both the stormwater team and county GIS, and that the contract covers tools to format cross-section survey data so it can auto-enter the county's floodplain mapping software and be submitted to FEMA. ‘‘This is the data that is used to develop the flood plain map,’’ she said, arguing the work will streamline submissions and improve data flow.

Members exchanged questions about whether consultants had been asked for input and whether existing applications could meet the county's needs. Sarah said several consultants responded to the request for proposals and that the proposed approach was chosen through that evaluation process. Member Evans reiterated concerns about cost, noting the contract cap of $250,000 and urging more time to explore options.

The committee held roll-call votes on the tabling motion and on the main motion. The motion to table failed; the committee then returned to the main motion and approved the contract. Chair (presiding officer) announced, “That passes.”

The committee did not record a detailed vote tally in the public record excerpt available; the transcript reflects named speakers urging both caution and trust in staff recommendations. The staff said it would provide additional information to municipal members who had not received a constituent email that prompted the tabling request.

Next steps: the approved contract covers work from March 10, 2026, through Nov. 30, 2027. Staff said they will follow up with requested clarifications for committee members.