Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
ADELAIDE METCALFE - Council approved several infrastructure-related contracts during its February 18 meeting, ensuring the continued maintenance and improvement of rural roads and drainage systems while staying within budget.
One of the central topics was the approval of a new contract for drainage superintendent services. Adelaide Metcalfe faced a significant operational shift after Southwest Middlesex announced it would no longer provide drainage superintendent services beyond December 31, 2024, later extending the deadline to February 2025.
In response, the township onboarded Spriet Associates to take over the role. Public Works Manager Coulter Cahill explained the rationale behind selecting Spriet Associates, stating, “By leveraging Spriet Associates’ expertise for drainage superintendent services, Adelaide Metcalfe stands to gain efficiencies in both service delivery and cost.” Cahill emphasized that the firm brings specialized knowledge in municipal engineering, enabling the township to streamline workflows and reduce redundancies.
The new contract includes an initial one-year term with a one-year renewal option. Under the agreement, Spriet Associates will provide one scheduled day per week for office and fieldwork, with the option to adjust based on service demands. Cahill highlighted that “the designated qualified employee from Spriet Associates shall be available full time by telephone during business hours to receive inquiries and correspond with residents, agents, and government bodies.” The estimated cost of the contract ranges between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on service levels, response times, and the number of on-site visits required. After the discussion, council unanimously approved the revised contract.
Council then turned its attention to road maintenance, approving the tender for the township’s 2025 dust suppressant program. Cahill presented the tender results, announcing that Pollard Distribution Inc. had submitted the lowest bid at $372.10 per flake tonne, nearly $17 cheaper per tonne than the 2024 rate. “We are under the budgeted amount of $121,000 by $9,370 plus HST,” Cahill stated. This annual program applies dust suppressant to gravel roads to reduce dust levels, improving safety and quality of life for residents. Council approved the recommendation without debate, authorizing the Public Works Manager and Clerk to execute all necessary agreements.
The final infrastructure contract reviewed during the meeting involved the township’s 2025 maintenance gravel program. This annual initiative ensures the township’s gravel roads remain in good condition, with regular resurfacing scheduled roughly every three years. E+W Blane Trucking submitted the lowest bid at $18.69 per tonne, covering both supply and application to the township’s gravel network. Cahill reported that the total cost would come in at $224,280, under the budgeted $230,000 by $5,720 plus HST. “This is something that we undertake every year,” Cahill said, adding that the competitive pricing again helped the township stay within budget. Council approved the recommendation unanimously, with Mayor Sue Clarke praising the efficient management of municipal funds.
With the new drainage superintendent services secured, dust control measures in place for this year, and gravel maintenance contracts finalized, Adelaide Metcalfe remains on track to ensure its rural infrastructure is maintained efficiently and cost-effectively.
