Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Capital Projects topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves Martin Theater change orders after cost questions; 4-1 vote
Summary
The commission approved change orders increasing the project's stipulated sum by $252,775.13 to cover federally eligible FEMA scope items and other construction adjustments, after debate over value‑engineering decisions and the timing of some work; the vote was 4-1.
The City Commission approved change orders July 22 for the Martin Theater renovation that increase the contract sum by $252,775.13. The changes cover items in the FEMA‑eligible scope and other necessary construction adjustments, the city manager told commissioners. The contract is with Burke Construction.
Why it matters: The Martin Theater project is a high‑profile downtown restoration funded in part by FEMA and other sources. Commissioners debated several change-order items, including structural foundation work (helical piles), elevator type and a replacement fire curtain, which staff said could not be reused after inspections found burn marks. Commissioner Granger questioned why some items identified in the project's value‑engineering exercise had returned as increases; staff and contractor representatives said hidden conditions in an older building and tariff increases had driven additional cost.
Commissioner concerns and vote: Commissioner Granger said a thorough value‑engineering process should minimize such returns and asked for clearer documentation. City staff and Burke Construction explained the foundation issues and technical constraints that required deeper piles and additional grouting, and noted a tax‑exemption procurement arrangement the city will use to reduce final cost at project closeout. The motion to approve the change orders passed 4-1; one commissioner voted no.
Next steps: Because many of the change-order items are FEMA‑eligible, staff expect reimbursement through FEMA processes. Staff will provide commissioners with additional documentation on the geotechnical findings and value‑engineering clarifications as requested.
Vote: Motion passed 4-1.
