Calls for a contract to trim trees in Plympton-Wyoming to be given a second look were turned away.

Town council was to approve a tender to cut 46 trees in the municipality. The lowest bid came from Ontario Tree Service in Forest at $30,000. The second lowest bid came from Wyoming Tree Service – a local company owned by former councillor Tim Wilkins. His bid was $6,125 more.

Town staff recommended the lowest bid and that concerned Councillor John VanKlaveren. “I do see them employing a lot of people in town. I see them putting up Christmas lights and that might have some value,” he says.

Adam Sobanski, director of public works, says when he recommends a contractor he first checks to make sure they’re qualified and then recommends the lowest cost.

Councillor Alex Boughen said one contractor was confused by the tender details and “that could make the difference.” Sobanski said he had dealt with the concerns and felt the contractor had a clear picture of what was being asked for.

“I’m not saying that the Wyoming Tree Service bid is not of good value, actually, I think it’s a great value. I just think they got undercut on this situation,” said Sobanski at the Dec. 14 meeting.

But most of council, including Councillor Mike Vasey, voted to accept the low tender. “If we started going down that road, now we’re picking our buddies we’re picking our friends we’re here to get the best bang for our buck for Wyoming.”