Nicholasville approves Brett Construction as construction manager for new municipal building, contingent on contract review

The Nicholasville City Commission on April 14, 2025 approved the selection of Brett Construction Company as construction manager for the city’s new municipal building, contingent on final contract review by city staff.

City staff said they interviewed multiple firms and toured a recently completed medical building in Lexington built by the recommended firm. Bob (city staff) told commissioners the team was “really impressed” by the firm’s ideas about cost savings and building functionality and that the firm had a record of completing projects on schedule. He said the construction manager will work with the city’s architect to finalize the design and then oversee bidding of trade contracts.

Commission discussion emphasized local procurement. One commissioner said, “I’m happy to see us recommend a local company,” praising the firm’s reputation in the community. Staff characterized the fee arrangement discussed during interviews as typical for a qualifications-based selection; a percentage fee in the low single digits was discussed during the meeting and staff noted they would negotiate final price during contract finalization. Commissioners asked staff to complete contract details and return any necessary documents; staff said they planned a sit-down with the architect and the construction manager within a couple of weeks to set a design schedule.

The commission made the approval contingent on Darren’s review of contract language. The motion passed by roll call.

Commissioners did not specify a final guaranteed maximum price at the April 14 meeting; staff said final cost details will be negotiated and presented for administrative approval or returned to the commission if required.