During a recent city council meeting, officials approved a series of change orders totaling $269,346.29 for ongoing improvements to the community center. The decision authorizes the city manager to execute these changes, which have arisen due to unforeseen conditions discovered during the remodeling process.

The council discussed the necessity of the change orders, which include addressing issues such as missing water lines, mold remediation, and the replacement of stolen air conditioning units. The first two change orders, previously approved by the city manager, accounted for $12,689.89, covering the replacement of water lines and adjustments to door frame dimensions.

Subsequent change orders revealed more extensive issues. Change order 3, which addressed the theft of air conditioning units, amounted to $116,112.48. Other significant costs included $43,190.67 for repairs above the kitchen and $76,428.50 for mold remediation and drywall replacement.

As a result of these changes, the total contract price for the community center remodel has increased from the original $1,288,000 to approximately $1,593,943.80. The overall budget for the project now stands at $1,720,743.80, with funding sourced from the general fund.

City officials emphasized the importance of addressing these unexpected challenges, noting that capital expenses were intentionally excluded from the general fund budget to accommodate potential future contingencies. The council's approval reflects a proactive approach to ensuring the community center's improvements are completed effectively and safely.