State contractor scrutinized

Colchester (WTNH) - There is a controversy brewing surrounding a contractor hired by the DOT to rebuild a picturesque bridge. But the contractor says it's a smear because they are a non-union business.

Barr Incorporated, a contractor from Putnam, was awarded a $1 million contract to rebuild a covered walking bridge that straddles the Salmon River where Colchester meets East Hampton. The DOT hired Barr despite the fact that they have been barred from public jobs in Massachusetts and they are being investigated by the Connecticut Department of Labor for allegedly violating prevailing wage laws on another Connecticut job.

"It is the height of stupidity and incompetence to sign a contract with a company that has a very, very bad reputation," said Sen. Edith Prague (D-Labor & Public Employees Committee).

"We should have learned from Massachusetts. We should have taken their lead and now we have to learn from our mistakes that stronger scrutiny is required," said Attorney General Richard Blumenthal.

But a spokesman at the DOT says they had to give Barr the contract because they were the lowest qualified bidder on the project. Spokesman Judd Everhart said, "We could not legally deny them the contract. We are aware of the issues in Massachusetts and the recent action by the Connecticut Department of Labor. Should Barr Incorporated be the low bidder on a future contract, we would sit down with them to make certain they are capable of doing the job."

"Although it was technically permissable for this contract to be awarded in Connecticut, it certainly seems, at best, a risky decision," said Sen. Don DeFronzo (D-Transportation Committee).

The company issued a statement saying, "We are shocked and saddened that our history as a non-union shop would precipitate this kind of effort to smear our name. We are shocked that distinguished legislators do not have the wisdom to see through these union tactics. DOT decided we were the best for the job."

Several representatives from labor unions were at a press conference called by Sen. Prague today.