The Public Works Department uses traction material on city streets and roads during the winter months as an aid in ice and snow removal.  On average, the Street/Traffic Division will use between 4000 and 6000 tons of sand per year for this purpose.  The Public Works Department advertised for bids in the Billings Times and the City Internet for two weeks.  Bids were opened for the winter traction material on August 28th, 2012.

The Council may:

Approve the award for the purchase of the winter traction material: or
      
Do not approve the award for the purchase of the winter traction material.  If not awarded the Public Works Deparment will not be able to place sand for traction control this winter season.

The cost for the winter traction material will be funded through the Public Works Department, Street/Traffic Division operation and maintenance accounts.  Bids were received on August 28, 2012.  One supplier responded to the request for bid and the bidding result is as follows:

Vendor	Price
Knife River	Yr 1 $16.45 per Ton
	Yr 2 $17.25 per Ton
	Yr 3 $17.95 per Ton

Staff recommends that Council approve the award for the purchase of winter traction material for $16.45 per ton from Knife River for 1 year with the option of purchasing the winter traction material for years two and three based on mutual consent of the city and the supplier.