Board approves $2.575 million amendment, furniture change for new central office

The Southwest ISD Board of Trustees voted to approve Amendment No. 3 for the district's new central office project and a related furniture change order during Tuesday's meeting. The construction amendment will add a metal building to serve as the grounds crew shop, and district staff said the work will be paid from 2023 bond funds.

District construction staff presented the cost and location details. "Ken Con came back with a number of 2,575,000," a staff member said, describing Amendment No. 3 as a not-to-exceed amount funded through the 2023 bond program. Staff said the new metal building will be placed near the former bus drop area adjacent to Building 800 to improve access to restrooms and reduce travel time for grounds employees.

The board also approved Change Order No. 1 for the central-office furniture contract. Staff reported a difference of $20,158.74 after adjustments to lobby furnishings and other items; the change order raised the total contract to $1,107,502.74.

Why it matters: the amendment and furniture change complete elements of the new central office site and allow district operations to consolidate into the renovated space while preserving facilities and storage for grounds equipment.

Board action: a motion to approve Amendment No. 3 not to exceed $2,575,000 and to allow staff to negotiate terms was approved by vote. Separately, the motion to approve the furniture change order for $20,158.74 was approved, increasing the total furniture contract.

Ending: District staff said the metal building will house grounds tractors, trucks and equipment and will utilize restrooms and other support spaces in Building 800 once complete. The construction change is funded from previously authorized bond proceeds and does not require a new bond authorization.