Board approves change orders for Rescue Elementary multipurpose room after soil, turf and irrigation issues raise contingency

The board approved change orders 1 through 6 for the Rescue Elementary multipurpose facility project after a project update and explanation of additional costs.

Project presenter Stadelson told trustees the original project contingency was just under $330,000. Change orders and additional work raised contingency spending to $523,000 (change orders total about $523,523 as presented), Stadelson said. A significant portion of the increase came from installation of artificial turf (about $140,000) and additional landscaping and irrigation repairs uncovered during site excavation; unsuitable soils in the front of the site required remediation to support the stage.

Stadelson said the district reworked ceiling acoustics, flooring, duct work and other items so the multipurpose room would be durable and finished to a standard the district would not need to re-do. She said the district prioritized structural and long-term integrity over less essential add-ons.

Funding for the project came from state modernization funds and developer fees, Stadelson said; no general-fund dollars were used for the multipurpose room. She described remaining funds in those designated accounts that will allow follow-up work, and said the next facilities request will concern replacement of portable restrooms at Rescue Elementary.

A trustee asked about contingency as a percent of construction; Stadelson said the final contingency was approximately 11.5% of the general construction amount, higher than the 8% originally budgeted.

Motion to approve change orders 1 through 6 was made and seconded; the chair called for the vote and the board voted in favor. The motion carried.