2020 Private Lead Service Line Replacement Program (PLSLR)

The Fond du Lac Water Utility is seeking qualifications from licensed plumbers and utility contractors to participate in the 2020 Private Lead Service Line Replacement (PLSLR) Program within the City of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) aims to replace approximately 100 lead service lines annually through a new funding mechanism approved by the Wisconsin state legislature. Qualified contractors must submit detailed applications including business contact information, master plumber credentials with license numbers, utility pipe layer credentials, and master electrician credentials. The application deadline is February 28, 2020, at 8:00 a.m., with a mandatory plumber/utility contractor meeting scheduled for March 4, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. at the City/County Government Building. Contractors must comply with Wisconsin Administrative Code sections SPS 305.90, 305.97, and Chapters 381-391, as well as all applicable OSHA requirements. They will be required to submit a Homeowner-Plumber Supplemental Agreement and project quote for Utility approval before commencing work, with all submissions subject to thorough review and potential verification with owners, bonding companies, or other agencies.

The program provides financial assistance covering 50 percent of replacement costs up to a maximum of $2,000, with the remainder offered as a loan through the City's Special Assessment process. Eligible costs include excavation, materials, labor, backfill, restoration, no-dig pipe installation methods, and electrical grounding, while unique building materials and elective water meter relocations are not reimbursable. The Fond du Lac Water Utility actively encourages participation from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women Business Enterprises (WBEs), and Small Businesses in Rural Areas (SBRAs). Prequalified contractors will be placed on an official list and distributed to eligible property owners, who will then contract directly with the selected plumbers. Payments of 100 percent will be made directly to the licensed plumber or utility contractor upon submission of an Application for Payment of Costs with a final itemized invoice. The Utility anticipates this program will continue well into the future, with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin expected to make a final decision on funding approval in late February or early March 2020.