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TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: Brian Katamay, Long Term Control Plan Project Assistant
DATE: January 26, 2026
SUBJECT:
A Resolution authorizing the Director of Purchasing to execute a three-year contract with M.E. Simpson Company, Inc. in the amount of $267,225 for water system leak detection services.
PURPOSE:
Public Works utilizes an acoustic leak detection program to find non-surfacing leaks in the water distribution system. By pinpointing leaks and estimating leak size, Public Works staff are able to prioritize water system repairs and reduce real water loss. The City's leak detection program consists of using acoustic listening devices on water system assets (e.g., hydrant valves and/or buffalo boxes/curb stops) to detect the acoustic signature of a water leak. Leak detection occurs on approximately one-third of the water system each year.
M.E. Simpson Company is a provider of this service and was selected through a competitive proposal process.
BACKGROUND:
The City has performed acoustic leak detection since 1980, with an official City program covering the entire water system every three years since 2016. Acoustic leak detection programs are recommended by the American Water Works Association as standard municipal water system practice. The City maintains over 800 miles of transmission and distribution pipes in the water system. Due to the large size of the system, the City splits system into three zones and leak detects one zone each year. Every three years the entire system is detected using acoustic devices. Selected vendors are also required to assist the City with emergency leak detection services or ensure water tightness for new and repaired water main.
The City released a request for proposals (RFP) for leak detection professional services on October 6th, 2025, with evaluations beginning on October 31st, 2025. Three submissions were received. A team of three reviewers from Public Works scored the proposals on firm experience, staff capabil...
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