Village Green Phase 1 advances amid utility and bidding disputes; committee seeks closed‑session update on a $190,000 change order

Ms. Riccoteau updated the committee on construction progress at Village Green and on related procurement. Work on the oval and paver subbase is underway; the contractor has faced a soils issue at the former dumpster area and staff and consultants are working on a solution. The committee was advised that bids for the S&L cabin and other elements previously returned higher than budgeted, and staff said they negotiated with lower bidders where feasible.

Phase 2 — the inclusive playground design — was approved conceptually by full council on March 10, and the department intends to proceed with engineering and bidding to preserve grant eligibility. Staff noted nearly $600,000 in grant support identified for the inclusive playground.

Discussion became contentious when Council Member Mabry pressed for clarity about an apparent $190,000 potential change order related to an underground electrical/utility component referenced on design drawings as a “duck bank.” Mabry questioned whether the consultant or a utility provided misleading information and asked for a closed‑session briefing so the council and committee could review contractual responsibility and options. Council members and staff disagreed about where responsibility rests; staff said attorneys and administrators were handling next steps and that a closed session item could be arranged.

No formal vote was taken on contracting for the change order. Staff said they will pursue further follow-up with consultants, Ameren (the electric utility referenced), and the city attorney and will report back to council and committee leaders as requested.

Context: Ms. Riccoteau and staff emphasized the continued urgency to complete Village Green Phase 1 and to progress Phase 2 within grant deadlines (staff identified an 18‑month grant window for the inclusive playground, with a June 26, 2025 completion horizon referenced for Phase 2 funding).