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Board approves construction change directive to replace ductwork at South Waco Elementary
Summary
Trustees unanimously approved a construction change directive to add upgraded supply and cleaned return ductwork at South Waco Elementary, citing improved air circulation, quieter operation and long-term system performance; the contract amendment includes overtime and a defined cap but exact overtime hours were not finalized at the meeting.
The Waco Independent School Board approved a construction change directive to replace supply ductwork and clean return ducts at South Waco Elementary as part of an ongoing HVAC upgrade.
Mrs. Barrera, presenting the contract amendment, said the district originally expected to replace only HVAC units but that a mid-project quality-assurance walkthrough identified ductwork limitations that would reduce comfort and system efficiency. She told trustees the RPC (request for pricing change) submitted by the contractor included overtime to keep the schedule, and that the district had set a top limit on overtime costs though final hourly quantities were still being calculated.
John Kazanis, representing the contractor and project team, said the approved work also includes cleaning the return ductwork at the opposite end of the system. Barrera explained the planned four supply grills will disperse air more evenly and reduce noise compared with the existing larger single ducts; she described the change as improving circulation and classroom comfort and said the upgrade would make the building “feel like a new building” in terms of HVAC performance.
Trustees discussed whether the existing ductwork could be left in place; presenters said the system would function but the new duct design will provide better ventilation, quieter operation and longer-term performance consistent with contemporary indoor-air-quality expectations. The administration said the existing contingency in the construction contract will pay for the work and that Mazzonek (contractor) has generally stayed on schedule and in budget on the overall project.
The motion to approve the construction change directive for HVAC ductwork at South Waco Elementary (agenda item 10) was moved by Mr. Grant and seconded by Mr. Vidania; trustees voted aye and the motion passed unanimously. The directive authorizes the contractor to proceed with the revised scope, including return-duct cleaning and a capped overtime allowance; the administration will provide final cost details as the contractor reports hours and confirms schedule impacts.
Board members and administration framed the decision as timely—doing the ductwork while the site is under construction reduces the need to return later and reduces disruption to students and staff.
