Included in the Airport's Capital Improvement program is the purchase of a Cupping Snow Plow Blade.  This new piece of snow removal equipment will be used on the passenger airline ramps and the cargo ramps.  The cupping snow plow blade is interchangeable and connects onto the front of either of two heavy duty loaders.  This is relatively new technology, specifically made for airport snow removal operations that occur on large aircraft parking ramps. The hydraulically actuated ends can be moved to concentrate snow toward the center of the plow blade for improved handling and control of the snow during plowing activities. This improvement will ultimately save time and money, and increases the overall efficiency of snow removal operations at the Airport.  This project was advertised for three weeks in the Billings Times and on the City's Website. Bids were opened on October 15, 2013. At the October 15, 2013 Council meeting, City Council delayed award to allow staff additional time to review the anticipated bids. The following bid was received:

Contractor	Bid
M-B Companies, Inc.	$68,817.00

The City Council may:

• Accept the sole bid and approve the purchase of the Cupping Snow Plow Blade; or
• Reject the bid and delay the purchase.

The total net cost of the Cupping Snow Plow Blade is $68,817.00. The funding for this project is available in the Airport's Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) account.

Staff recommends the City Council approve the award for the Cupping Snow Plow Blade to the sole bidder, M-B Companies, Inc., for the amount of $68,817.00.