During a recent government meeting, trustees discussed the continuation of a contract with Carducci, a specialized landscape architect, for the greening of school campuses. The conversation was prompted by inquiries regarding the decision to forgo a Request for Proposal (RFP) process in favor of amending the existing contract with Carducci.

Dr. Rudolph explained that all architects involved in construction projects undergo a qualifying process, followed by a bidding process. Carducci was selected due to its expertise in landscape architecture, which is deemed essential for the project's unique requirements. The firm has been instrumental in facilitating community meetings and integrating feedback into the design process, distinguishing its approach from traditional architects who focus solely on compliance with standards.

Dr. Westover elaborated on the contract amendment, emphasizing that it reflects the board's decision to expand the scope of the outdoor learning and greening project. The amendment is necessary to avoid the complications and costs associated with having two architecture firms working concurrently on the same project. The current contract, valued at approximately $420,000, will cover the planning and design phases, with Carducci managing the necessary submissions to the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and ensuring quality assurance throughout the project.

Trustees expressed interest in understanding the specific scope of work and the timeline for completion. Dr. Westover clarified that Carducci's role involves gathering community input, developing schematic designs, and preparing documentation for DSA approval, rather than executing construction work.

The meeting also opened the floor for public comments, inviting community members to share their thoughts on the contract and the greening initiative. This engagement underscores the district's commitment to incorporating community feedback into its planning processes.