City Manager Jim Weprich told council the Roberts Mill Road reconstruction is currently with special counsel, working with the bonding company and subcontractor on pavement work, and that staff expects more movement after the holidays.

Weprich reported that initial investigation of the Memorial Drive water main found the primary line is ductile iron, so full replacement is not required. However, many house services are connected to an older line that will be abandoned; staff recommended reconnecting those services to the ductile iron main, which will require multiple crosscuts and service work. The 90% design plans have been reviewed and the grading application submitted to the county.

Weprich also praised CDM Smith’s recent performance, saying the firm has returned to acceptable service levels after earlier design delays. Council heard that CDM Smith is separate from other contractors mentioned in past planning work and that alternate firms hired during prior delays did not yield better outcomes.

No formal action was taken; staff and counsel said they will continue to monitor legal, permitting and contracting steps and report status updates.