Port Authority Tables Approving Concession Advisor ARUP

MANATEE--The Port Authority voted to table approval of an additional payment of $42,500 to Port Manatee concession advisor ARUP until the next scheduled meeting March 17 when the firm is slated to present its completed report to the board. The Port Authority held its meeting in county chambers Thursday following the board of county commissioners Land Use meeting.

ARUP informed port staff of the outside of contract costs for services rendered beyond the scope of the original agreement on February 14, however no invoice has been issued by the firm to the Port.

The original request by ARUP reportedly was for $90,000. Port staff recommended a reduced amount of $42,500 which ARUP has reportedly agreed to accept for ”extra professional engineering services“ needed to complete the firm’s report on developing an improved business plan for Port Manatee.

”This is not a proper way to do business“, said Commissioner Joe McClash. ”According to the contract, any additional services are to be approved prior to work being done.“

The original contract agreement between the port and ARUP is for $185,000 to put together a business development plan.

Commissioner Donna Hayes said, ”We need to watch this over running of our budget.“

”Nearly $100,000 is a big Ôoh by the way’“, said Commissioner DiSabatino. ”I have a big problem with that.“

”I don’t have any negative comments towards ARUP“, added Commissioner McClash. ”It’s appropriate to table and see what they deliver to us. I think they will deliver a quality product.“

Port Authority Chairman Larry Bustle said, ”They’ve been very professional and thorough. The result will be worth the cost.“

Commissioner Carol Whitmore motioned to approve the additional payment to ARUP.

Commissioner McClash made an amended motion to table the payment until the next Port Authority meeting on March 17 when ARUP will be in attendance to present its report.

The amended motion was passed 4-3.