City Council Meeting 2/17/2026

The City Council of Watertown held a meeting on February 17, 2026, which included several procurement-related discussions and contract approvals. Key items included the approval of a $3.5 million street reconstruction project for 15th Avenue North, which attracted 10 bids but faced controversy when a local contractor claimed they were excluded from the plan holders list, potentially costing taxpayers $40,000. Despite concerns, the council voted to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder following legal advice that all statutory bidding requirements were met. Additionally, the council approved a resolution to have Civil Design Inc. perform the 2026 bridge inspection services, a contract valued at approximately $8,000 with 80% state funding. The council also authorized lease agreements for city-owned real estate with local businesses, generating needed revenue. Discussions highlighted the importance of transparency in bidding processes and the value of continuity in professional services procurement.