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BET approves appropriation to accept $≈$21 million state share for six school HVAC projects
Summary
The Board authorized spending the state's committed share—about $21 million—toward six school HVAC projects totaling roughly $36 million, clearing the way for bidding and monthly reimbursement draws from the state.
The Board of Estimate and Taxation on March 3 approved a special capital appropriation to accept and spend the state grant share—approximately $21 million—toward six Norwalk school HVAC projects. The total estimated cost of the six projects is just under $36 million.
Jared (city staff) explained that although the state, not the city, is providing the funds, the board must formally appropriate the state share so the city can draw and spend the money. "You have to give us the authority to spend that money," he said. Alan (project lead) and Jim Juliano (state grant liaison) told the board the grant award is a formal state commitment and that the city will request interim reimbursements monthly during construction.
Alan said the state reimbursable share is large—roughly 60 percent—and that the city will not necessarily have to front the entire amount: "we are setting up to be asking for reimbursement ... every month or month and a half," he said, adding that only about 5 percent will be retained by the state as retainage at project completion.
The board discussed cost estimating and scheduling; Alan noted that one project already bid (Brookside School) came in below the conceptual budget. Board members asked about escalation, the grant term, and contingency if bids exceed budget; staff said they would return for additional appropriation if bids came in above approved project amounts. The board approved the appropriation by voice vote.
