LRS Companys owner Rick Pinney challenged the Lansing Board of Education Wednesday to explain why his company did was not awarded work on new septic systems for the elementary, middle and high schools this summer.  Pinney said his company's proposal makes the most financial sense for the district because it would save the district $62,449.

"LRS Companies is the low base bidder," Pinney said.  "I noticed yesterday that the award was posted to another contractor yesterday.  We have made several attempts to contact the architect to discuss this project, but have received zero feedback.  This is an odd situation."

Pinney presented a spreadsheet to the board showing a breakdown of five bids.  The issue revolves around whether concrete or fiberglass tanks should be used.  Pinney said that fiberglass tanks are the better value, and last longer than concrete tanks.  He noted that no scenario in which concrete septic tanks are used would result in a cheaper bid compared to LRS's proposal for fiberglass tanks.


He brought Bill Beech from Xerxes Corporation, which manufactures fiberglass tanks to explain why he thinks fiberglass tanks are better and longer lasting than concrete.  Beech showed the board samples of fiberglass used in the tanks.

The job was awarded to Landmark Construction, based not far from Geneva, NY.  Landmark had the lowest bid that uses concrete septic tanks, at $2,034,249.  Pinney noted that his company not only had the lowest bid at $1,971,800, but that it is a local company and he is a graduate of Lansing High School.

School Board Vice President Christine Iacobucci noted that the board would not be awarding or approving a bid, and would not be responding that night.

"Tonight we are in receipt of the contractor bids for the septic project," she said.  "We are happy to hear you and Mr. Beech tonight and you will be getting a response from our Superintendent and Business Administrator.  Our experts will be talking to you.  The Board's authority is to make sure that we follow the law and the correct procedures."

School Business Administrator Mary June King said that the bid has been awarded, and would have to consult district attorneys to find out whether bid awards can be changed once they have been awarded.  King says she would like to support local companies when possible.  But she noted that the district relies on the architects to determine the best materials for a project.  It is unlikely that the award will be changed.

"I think I'll ask our architects to give the Board their perspective on why they are advising us that concrete is better than fiberglass," said King.  "I think the Board is good with the advice we received from our experts."

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