Board selects Christman as construction manager for 2025 bond program, approves preconstruction fee

The Southgate Community School District Board of Education approved recommending The Christman Company as the construction manager for the district’s 2025 bond program and approved the initial preconstruction fee.

A district presenter told the board the district solicited proposals from five construction management firms and received four. After interviews, Christman rose to the top based on experience, team composition and a competitive fee. The presenter described Christman’s work in nearby districts and said the firm offered a competitive fee "which is well within our budget and, probably will be the lowest fee of the 4."

The presenter explained construction manager contracts are two-phase: a preconstruction phase (helping through design with estimates) and a construction phase where the manager returns with guaranteed maximum prices for specific projects. The initial preconstruction fee shown in the award recommendation is $65,009; other fees tied to project bids and percentages will return to the board when hard construction work is ready to set GMPs.

Board members asked whether the $65,009 figure was the total; the presenter clarified it covered the first preconstruction tranche and that final amounts for personnel and reimbursables will be presented later when projects are bid.

A motion to approve the 2025 bond program construction management services as presented was made by Dr. Pomponio, seconded by Miss Angel, and carried by voice vote.

The board’s selection starts the preconstruction phase; the presenter said each construction package will return to the board for individual approval of GMPs and contracts.