The Hays City Commission will meet for a work session at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at City Hall.

Commissioners are scheduled to discuss hiring an “owner-representative” to assist with the reconstruction of the wastewater treatment plant.

The project, which has been mandated because of Kansas Department of Health and Environment permit requirements in 2018, is expected to cost between $26 million and $28 million.

City staff is recommending the commission enter into a $1.7 million contract with Olathe-based HDR to serve as owner-representative during the project, essentially serving as an extension of the city staff and leading the project.

Requests for proposal for the service were issued in February. HDR officials are scheduled to be on hand Thursday to answer questions.

Reconstruction of the wastewater plant is expected to be in late 2017.

Also on the agenda is continued discussion of a proposal to increase the pay of Hays city commissioners, an issue recently raised by outgoing Commissioner Kent Steward.

Click HERE for a complete agenda for Thursday’s work session and supporting materials.