Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Utilities Department

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager Diane Stoddard, Assistant City Manager Casey Toomay, Assistant City Manager
FROM:	Beth Krishtalka, Assistant to Director
CC:	Dave Wagner, Director of Utilities Mike Lawless, Deputy Director Philip Ciesielski, Assistant Director Mark Hegeman, Superintendent Jeanette Klamm, Management Analyst
DATE:	October 28, 2014
RE:	Sturm Professional Services Agreement

Background

The Department has hosted Kansas University Associate Professor Belinda Sturm’s (Sturm) algal growth and water remediation research at its Wastewater Treatment Plant facilities since 2009. With Commission approval, the Department hired Sturm as an independent contractor on December 1, 2013 for thirteen (13) months of consulting services related to her technical and professional expertise in evaluating ongoing processes, analyzing data and implementing process improvements.  These services have provided substantial support to staff in process-related decisions involving treatment and infrastructure expansion.

Staff Recommendation

Based on highly satisfactory performance to date and ongoing department need, staff recommends execution of a Professional Services Agreement with Sturm. The Agreement provides for an initial twelve (12)-month term, with an option to extend annually at an adjusted rate for up to four (4) additional terms. Proposed compensation for 2015 would be $37,800, payable in monthly installments. Annual extensions would be subject to satisfactory performance to date and ongoing need. This will ensure needed technical services with respect to water and wastewater treatment processes and procedures, including but not limited to staff training and data analysis.

Project Funding

Funding will be from the Department’s Operations and Maintenance Budget.

Action

Authorize the City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Belinda Sturm for technical and professional consulting services for $37,800, with an option to extend annually at an adjusted rate for up to four (4) additional years.