Chariho committee approves Colliers and SLAM contracts to prepare RIDE Stage 2 for elementary capital plan

The Chariho Regional School District School Committee on Aug. 5 unanimously approved two contracts to move the district’s elementary capital planning to RIDE Stage 2: Colliers as the owner’s project manager (OPM) and SLAM Collaborative to prepare the Stage 2 architectural documents and community presentations.

The contracts clear the first formal administrative steps toward a five‑year capital improvement plan for the district’s elementary schools and set a timeline that includes community presentations in September–October and a Stage 2 submission to the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) by Feb. 15, 2026.

Gina (name in meeting packet), a district administrator, told the committee that Colliers has worked with the district for years and was recommended by the Necessity for School Construction subcommittee. “They have been a fabulous partnership,” she said, noting Colliers’ prior role as the district’s owner’s project manager and their familiarity with the buildings and RIDE processes.

Greg Zenyan, the district finance director, who said he is new to the role, described Colliers’ responsiveness: “My experience with Colliers has been excellent. They respond immediately to any concerns or questions… I don't believe I've ever left a voice mail. They always pick up the phone.”

The Colliers contract covers Stage 2 OPM services and lists a Stage 2 fee of $185,000, an allowance for reimbursables of $12,000 and a total…