Finance committee approves school project payments, questions PPBA procurement practices

Providence — The Providence City Finance Committee on April 30 approved three contract actions to complete existing capital projects at city schools and public facilities, while pressing staff and the Providence Public Building Authority for clearer procurement procedures.

The committee approved: (1) a $98,010 change order for Meriden Construction to finish work on an auditorium and backstage systems, (2) a $378,500.25 payment to Studio J for construction‑administration services at Pleasant View Elementary School and Classical High School, and (3) a $35,558.75 maintenance invoice tied to occupancy of a PPBA‑owned building.

Why it matters: The approvals release money needed to complete school renovations and close out contracts, but committee members said some PPBA transactions had been handled outside the city’s normal procurement and recordkeeping practices. The committee asked for a clearer written protocol and for working meetings with the city solicitor and PPBA counsel.

Meriden change order

The Meriden Construction change order was presented as the final work for the auditorium portion of a multi‑phase renovation. Public Property staff described items covered by the $98,010 figure: installation of a safety railing for a side door and landing, additional air conditioning for the sound/control booth, wiring and…