Council authorizes town administrator to negotiate on‑call engineering contract with Thomas & Hutton

After reviewing responses to an RFQ for on‑call engineering services, the Town of Sunset Beach council on May 4 authorized the town administrator to negotiate terms and pricing with Thomas & Hutton, the staff recommendation among three firms that submitted statements of qualifications.

Staff explained that firms submitted price sheets and qualifications but that final fees depend on negotiated scopes and included services. Council members asked about transition of current projects and making sure any work in progress is completed by the incumbent firm before onboarding a new vendor. The council emphasized the need to preserve town engineering records and ensure a smooth transfer of data.

By motion and second, council authorized the town administrator to enter negotiations with Thomas & Hutton; members asked that the administrator return if final negotiated terms are material or exceed expectations so the council could review and approve a final contract.

Staff said the RFQ contemplated a multiyear engagement and that negotiation would cover details such as onboarding, schedule, hourly rates and potential transitional costs. The motion passed by voice vote and staff will return with finalized terms for council approval.