Board approves $5.5M construction package to remediate Osceola Middle School moisture issues; board asks for contingency planning
Loading...
Summary
Marion County School Board authorized an early-release preconstruction package and will proceed with a $5.5 million guaranteed maximum price contract for remediation and exterior sealing at Osceola Middle School. Board members urged staff to prepare contingency plans in case repairs extend into the school year.
The Marion County School Board on May 13 approved preconstruction early-release work and a guaranteed maximum price for Osceola Middle School building improvements after district officials reported significant moisture intrusion requiring immediate remediation.
"We received a study on April 4 and right away we knew something had to be done," said Ms. Usher, district facilities staff, explaining the early-release package of roughly $500,000 to allow crews to begin remediation as soon as school dismisses for the summer. The full guaranteed maximum price (GMP) contract with Osely Construction is approximately $5,500,000, Ms. Usher said.
The board pulled the item from consent to allow discussion and asked for contingency planning. Board member Dr. Diane Gullett (superintendent) and Dr. Sarah James emphasized the need for a plan in case work spills into August. "I would like for us to go into this project with the principal with a contingency plan for August ... so that if it's not done, we're not trying to do a Vail Mary in late July," said Dr. James.
District staff said environmental assessments and samples had already been taken and that remediation and interior work would be prioritized to be completed during the summer break. "We have remediation company Simpson environmental. We'll be working ... and we'll address the interior first to make sure everything is cleared up," Ms. Usher said. She added that exterior sealing is also required to prevent further intrusion.
Board members acknowledged the age of the facility and the risk that uncovering one issue could reveal others. Dr. James asked staff to develop contingency plans (classroom relocations, phased work, or other mitigations) and to provide periodic updates. Board member Reverend Eric Cummings asked that periodic updates be provided to the board so members and the public can track progress.
The motion to approve the early-release package and GMP passed 5-0. Staff said they would return with further details and a definitive construction schedule. Ending: The board authorized immediate remediation work and requested contingency planning and periodic progress reports to avoid late-summer disruptions to students and staff.
