County clears contractor CB Construction to proceed with delayed concrete project

The Miami County Board of County Commission convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the progress and challenges of a construction project managed by CB Construction.

The meeting began with an update on the construction timeline, where officials confirmed that a notice to proceed had been issued to the contractor, allowing them to commence work within a 230-day period. This notice indicated that there were no barriers preventing the contractor from moving forward. The project includes the construction of an engineered steel building intended to house Emergency Medical Services (EMS) crews.

Officials noted that the contractor had applied for a building permit shortly after the notice was issued. However, delays arose due to the need for an engineered building, which required a lead time of over two months for design and approval. The building permit was granted within the standard timeframe of 3 to 5 working days after receiving the necessary plans.

The discussion highlighted that while the contractor completed preliminary site work, including grading and stormwater management, they faced delays in starting concrete work due to seasonal weather changes. As winter approached, the contractor incurred additional costs, including a winterization fee from their concrete supplier, which led to a change order of approximately $23,000. After negotiations, this amount was reduced to $18,000, which the contractor proposed to settle without pursuing further legal action against the county.

The county acknowledged its responsibility for some of the delays, particularly regarding the deferred building permit that could have allowed for more efficient site work. Officials expressed regret for not better forecasting the financial implications of these delays. They emphasized that the additional measures taken to protect the concrete during cold weather were ultimately beneficial for the project's longevity.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the complexities of managing construction projects, particularly in relation to weather impacts and permitting processes. The board recognized the contractor's willingness to negotiate and settle on costs, viewing the investment as a necessary step for the project's success. Further discussions on the project’s progress and any additional steps needed will continue in future meetings.