TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Allison Swisher, Director of Public Utilities
SUBJECT:
title
Approval of Biosolids Application Spring Lease Payment to Jackie Stunkel in the Amount of $36,600.00
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BACKGROUND:
On January 6, 2026, the Mayor and City Council authorized the award of the 2026 Biosolids Disposal Contract at the contract price of $2,516,550.00 to New Era Spreading, Inc. In addition to awarding the Disposal Contract, the Mayor and City Council also approved the Spring Lease program which provides a $150.00 per acre payment to farmers who accept biosolids in the spring for the additional tillage needed to plant after the spring biosolids application. The agreement also includes a provision to pay a $150.00 per acre reduced yield guarantee.
The Public Service Committee will review this matter.
CONCLUSION:
Jackie Stunkel provided 122 acres for biosolids application this spring. Per the Spring Lease Agreement, Jackie Stunkel is owed $150.00 per acre for additional tillage needed to prepare the land to plant a summer crop. In addition to the tillage, Jackie Stunkel agreed to plant late allowing for the application of biosolids well into June. The City agreed to pay the additional $150.00 per acre reserved for reduced yield. The total amount is $36,600.00 (122 x $300.00).
Section 2-438 of the City of Joliet Code of Ordinances states that purchases whose estimated cost is in excess of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00) may be awarded without written specifications or bidding under certain circumstances. One of these circumstances apply:
(f) Purchases when authorized by a concurring vote of two-thirds (2/3) of the Mayor and City Council
Payment for the spring lease program will be charged to the Water & Sewer Operating Fund / Westside WWTP / Contractual Services (Org 50080803, Object 524200, $36,600.00).
RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
Based on the above, it is recommended that the Mayor and City Council approve the spring lease payment, in the amount of $36,600.00, to Jackie Stunkel.
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