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Local Interest
Convention Center Gets Its Builder
Wilmington, NC – Wilmington's city council last night gave the convention center its builder, the fire department its new leader, and lawn lovers a reason to be happy.
After some debate, the Council selected JM Thompson Company of Raleigh to construct the Convention Center. Council members had raised concerns because the company's last local project - the New Hanover County jail - ended over budget and behind schedule.
"My phone has been ringing off the hook," about this issue, said Council member Ronald Sparks said, who says he's been hearing from concerned engineering colleagues around the state.
Company owner John Thompson rose to his firm's defense during the meeting, answering council's concern's point-by-point and blasting the county and other contractors for most of the delays and overruns with the jail.
JM Thompson passed the city's prequalification process to be judged a responsible bidder and submitted the lowest estimate on the construction project. Rejecting their bid without a documented reason, according to the city attorney, would open Wilmington to a lawsuit.
By the end of the exchange, Council voted unanimously to approve the contract.
In other items on last night's agenda, council members approved a new, relaxed set of water conservation rules, moving from mandatory restrictions during droughts to guidelines that allow everything from lawn watering to car washing.
Council also voted to urge New Hanover County to put a quarter-cent sales tax up for a public vote to fund several road projects and public transportation.
Last night also saw the approval of the next fire department head when Chief Sam Hill steps down later this month after five decades with the department. Wilmington native Frank Blackley takes over as interim chief while the city conducts a nationwide search for a permanent replacement.
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Past Coverage of these topics:
Convention Center Another Step Toward Construction
New Water Rules for Wilmington?