TRANSMITTAL LETTER FOR BOARD MEETING OF AUGUST 13, 2026
COMMITTEE ON MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS
Mr. John P. Murray, Executive Director
Title
Declaration of an emergency affecting public health and safety and ratification of Emergency Contract 26-600-01, Thorn Creek Diversion Structure Restoration to Airy’s Inc., in an amount not to exceed $300,000.00, Account 101-66000-612600, Requisition 1662100
Body
Dear Sir:
On Sunday, July 5, 2026, during a significant storm that produced 3.77 inches of rainfall at the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant, the Thorn Creek Diversion Structure was diverting a large volume of water when a surge occurred at the vent shaft. The force of the water washed out a substantial portion of the road, dislodged the grate, and damaged the chain-link fence surrounding the vent shaft. Immediate repairs are necessary to maintain the safe and reliable operation of the diversion structure.
In accordance with Section 11.5 of the Purchasing Act, the Board of Commissioners was polled, and tentatively declared an emergency affecting public health and safety. To perform repairs as quickly as possible, it is requested that the Board of Commissioners ratify the agreement with Airy’s Inc., in an amount not to exceed $300,000.00.
In consideration of the above, and in accordance with Section 11.5 of the District’s Purchasing Act, 70 ILCS 2605/11.5, it is requested that the Board of Commissioners formally declare an emergency affecting public health and safety to repair the Thorn Creek Diversion Structure vent shaft and surrounding area.
It is also requested that the Board of Commissioners fix the date on which the emergency is to terminate as October 30, 2026. A full report of the resolution of the emergency will be presented to the Board of Commissioners at a future meeting.
Funds are available in Account 101-66000-612600.
Requested, Edward J. Staudacher, Director of Maintenance and Operations, JBS:BML:JR:MM
Disposition of this agenda item will be documented in the official Regular Board Meeting Minutes of the Board of Commissioners for August 13, 2026