The request of staff for City Council is to review and consider for approval the first of two one (1) year contract extensions with the same terms and conditions as set forth in the current contract ITB22-06 with Merrell Bros., Inc. for Biosolids Hauling and Disposal dated April 5, 2022. 

The Wastewater Treatment Plant generates about 7,000 tons of biosolids annually as a by-product of the treatment process.  The material must be transported and treated to FDEP standards prior to disposal.  Our facility is not equipped to provide this level of biosolids treatment and the cost to transport the material to disposal sites makes it impractical for the City to perform this task in-house.  Disposal sites have changed over time due to FDEP environmental regulations and this has caused an increase in the typical charge for hauling and disposal.  The existing cost for the disposal is $69.44 per ton under the current contract.  Should the City decide not to extend the contract and advertise for competitive bids, it is anticipated that the disposal cost would greatly increase.  Merrell Bros., Inc. has performed this service to the City for 12 years.  They have been dependable and no complaints have been filed against the contractor by staff or the public.  Merrell Bros., Inc. is currently providing the same service for Pasco County and co-operate, co-own the biosolids disposal site located off of Hays Road in Pasco County.  This is a large company with the resources and experience needed to provide a high level of service to perform this type of task.