Kankakee waives bidding, approves purchase of bypass pump to protect sewer system

Kankakee — The City Council on April 6 approved a resolution waiving competitive bidding and authorizing the purchase of a Hydra bypass pump from Xylem for the Environmental Services Utility after the city received no bids when the item was advertised.

City staff said the pump is a needed bypass device to prevent sewer overflow during failures and to support system operations in emergencies, and noted a 6–8 week lead time for delivery. An official told the council the item is a standard emergency planning purchase to be available if generators fail or other equipment is incapacitated.

The resolution passed by roll call vote, 12–0.

What’s next: ESU staff will complete procurement and monitor delivery timelines; no additional appropriation or financing details were discussed on the council floor.