Village flags delays on Kokosing Drive sewer work; grant extended and contractor under scrutiny

The Village of Gambier reported continued delays on the Kokosing Drive sewer project and said staff have asked engineering consultant V3 to intervene after receiving what they described as insufficient updates from the prime contractor.

Village Administrator Courtney DeCosky told the Streets & Utilities committee that Unlimited Core Solutions intended to return to the site on July 3 to finish main-line saddles and to start installing grinders and house connections the following week but that progress has been slower than expected. After reviewing electrical submittals, V3 is pursuing an alternative disconnect submittal so work can proceed, she said.

The Ohio Department of Development has granted an extension on the project agreement to July 31, 2026, the packet notes. Committee members said the village will consider contract remedies, including penalties, if the contractor does not meet revised milestones.

Committee discussion also flagged the village's broader water-loss monitoring: staff reported a 2025 unaccounted-for-water rate of 38%, down from 45% the prior year. Village staff (Jeremiah) described continuing efforts to locate leaks and said the village plans additional Leak Seekers field work.

What happens next: V3 will continue reviewing electrical submittals and the contractor has indicated a phased timeline for completing saddles and grinder installations. Council and staff said they will review the contract if the schedule is missed and will report back to council with any recommended actions.