City approves final change orders on Watertown City Hall renovation; net decrease to construction contract

The Watertown City Council approved two change orders on the city hall/Wells Fargo renovation on Aug. 18, including a net decrease to the prime construction contract and a small increase to the architectural services agreement. Item 9a: Hough Construction change order The council approved a change order with Hough Construction that reduced the contract by roughly $50,000, bringing the new contract amount to $4,204,558. City Manager Steger told the council that the building is largely complete and in the warranty phase; staff-initiated changes such as adjustments to the appliance package and door hardware produced overall cost reductions. Item 9b: TSP Inc. professional services amendment Council also approved Amendment No. 5 with architectural consultant TSP Inc. for additional construction services related to the city hall renovation. City Manager Steger said the amendment of about $7,300 addressed staff‑initiated changes involving duct work locations, electrical relocations and additional concrete footing work at the garage. The amendment raised the TSP contract to roughly $394,979. Discussion vs. decision Discussion only: brief staff explanation that changes were staff‑initiated and that the project is in warranty/closeout. Formal action: council voted to approve both change orders separately; motions carried on voice votes. Implementation and next steps City staff will continue warranty monitoring and follow up on open closeout items under the reduced construction contract and the amended architectural agreement. Financial details and clarifications - Hough Construction new contract amount: approximately $4,204,558 (net decrease of roughly $50,000). - TSP professional services total after Amendment No. 5: approximately $394,979 (increase of about $7,300).