City Council OKs change in water maintenance contract

SIDNEY -- The Sidney City Council recently approved vacating a right of way that became a parking lot.

Water and Sewer Superintendent Joe Talich brought before the council a proposal to change the water storage maintenance contract from USG Water to Maguire Iron.

"I'm asking the council to consider changing our water storage facility contracts from USG Water to Maguire Iron. In this department, I've noticed a need for this change. In the last three years, I've reached out two different companies, and try to find the best fit for us. In doing so, I've teamed up with Jake Maguire with Maguire Iron and we've developed kind of a contract, kind of a ground base where we can start, give the city the service they deserve. USG Water has sold out four or five times in the last probably eight years," Talich said.

He said the change will save the City a little less than $2,000 annually, but the cost savings is not the issue. Talich said his concern is service.

"Three years ago, like I said, I reached out, try and fix this issue, and this is the solution I came up with. I ran it by the city manager. I ran it by the city attorney. Now it's just up to you guys to decide what you want to do with the contract if you want better service," he said.

Talich said the agreement is a maintenance contract.