Board approves two‑firm program and construction management arrangement despite committee recommendation debate

The Pomona Unified School District Board of Education approved, by a 3‑2 vote on March 12, awarding program and construction management services to two firms after a contentious discussion about oversight and efficiency.

Board members debated staff’s recommendation to engage both SafeWorks (staff’s top selection) and LCC3 Construction Services Inc. Board Member Nashua argued the district should follow the committee’s recommendation and hire a single firm, saying two firms could “muddy the waters” and be unwieldy for a facilities department with limited staff. A second board member urged caution given the district’s small facilities team and the recent elimination of a senior facilities position.

Staff defended the two‑firm approach, saying the district’s Facilities Department is currently small and that some ongoing projects involve LCC3, which provided continuity for in‑progress work while the newer firm could be assigned other projects such as portable placement and bond program tasks. Mr. Mesa, who helped prepare the RFQ, told the board the RFP/RFQ process produced both firms through interviews and that both had submitted required materials.

After further questions about oversight, transition and documentation, the board moved to a vote. The clerk announced the count as three in favor and two opposed; the motion passed. During the discussion board members asked staff to ensure a transition plan and clear reporting so the district retains project documentation and institutional memory.

The contract term staff cited in the meeting runs through June 30, 2027, and staff said they plan to rebuild the facilities team by adding project managers and other roles over the next several budget cycles. Staff said job descriptions and funding recommendations for those positions will be brought to the board at future meetings.

Board members who opposed the two‑firm award asked staff to pull the item and return with a singular recommendation in keeping with the selection committee’s ranking. Staff said the district has a Facilities Master Plan and auditor reports available for the Bond Oversight Committee; staff offered to provide records and to have audits reviewed by the bond oversight body.

The board’s approval permits staff to enter contracts with the selected firms for program and construction management services as structured in the RFQ; the board directed staff to provide clearer oversight, transition planning and periodic reporting to the board and bond oversight committee.