RON LANE INC. TAKING ACTION OVER "BID INTERFERENCE"

(12/11/2009)
Calhoun contractor Ron Lane Inc. is taking legal action against the Mt. Zion PSD and their project engineer Jim Hildreth over what he claims is bid interference and violations of the competitive bidding laws of the State of West Virginia.

Lane says the Mt. Zion PSD awarded him the pipe contract for the $5.2 million water extension project twice, but now the contract has been issued to Bruce Allen Pipeline, whose bid price was $200,000 above Lanes.

Lane claims he lost the contract because of delays created by engineer Hildreth.

Hildreth said at a public meeting that it would be a risk management problem if Lane received the bid.

"I regret having to bring this kind of action, but it is necessary," Lane said, indicating regret over having to style the suit against the Mt. Zion PSD, after claiming engineer Hildreth is at the center of the storm.

Lane is seeking a temporary restraining order and permanent injunction, but his filing also indicates movement toward taking further civil action.

Judge David W. Nibert dismissed a restraining order this week sought by Welding Inc., who also claimed bid interference.

Lane's complaint, documents and summons' have been filed in the Calhoun Circuit Clerk's office.

More to follow ...