Flossmoor SD 161 approves $573,283 architect fee for summer 2026 construction after board questions contingency language

The Flossmoor SD 161 Board of Education on Tuesday approved a fee letter with Wold Architects & Engineers totaling $573,283 for design and related services for summer 2026 construction at Flossmoor Hills, Western Avenue and Parker Junior High schools.

Board member Cameron Nelson led questioning about how the architects’ fee is calculated and whether a “design contingency” included in the fee would be charged even if the related work never occurs. “If that contingency never occurs, that change in scope never occurs, they get to keep that money?” Nelson asked during debate. Fran (staff member), who presented the item, replied that the firm’s formula “includes management reimbursables, it includes design contingency, but it does not include actual contingency.”

The issue centered on whether the architects’ fee both includes a design contingency and also allows the firm to bill additional fees if the scope changes. Nelson called the language “clear as mud” and urged the board to consider renegotiation or not renewing the architects’ contract for future projects. Fran told the board the fee language reflected what the district previously agreed to in the architect contract and said the wording is common in comparable contracts.

Several trustees pressed administration about options. One board member urged approving the item now to avoid delaying the construction schedule while reserving future negotiation: “I would go ahead with this, but I would not renew the contract without further discussions,” a board member said. Administration warned that reopening or redoing the architect selection could delay the summer work.

After discussion the board voted to approve the Wold fee letter. The motion passed on roll call.