Council approves two‑year engineering contract with Jones & DeMille with $120,000 not‑to‑exceed cap

Council discussed a proposed two‑year agreement with Jones & DeMille to provide town engineering services. Staff and council noted that the firm bills hourly and that the two‑year contract reflects an estimated two‑year total of about $120,000 (roughly $60,000 per year in typical billings), but that the contract is billed against hours actually worked.

A council member recommended adding three words—"not to exceed"—to item 4 to ensure the town is not contractually bound beyond the intended two‑year funding estimate. Staff indicated the consultant would accept the change and that the contract can be extended or renegotiated if additional authorization is later approved.

A motion to accept the agreement with the added 'not to exceed $120,000' clause carried on a roll‑call vote.

The contract will expire once the authorized funds are expended and any additional work would require a new contract or amendment. Council members asked staff to monitor monthly billings and to return with a new contract if expenditures approach the cap.