Jenks Aquarium Authority approves Pepsi contract; large-animal holding facility delayed to April

The Jenks Aquarium Authority voted to approve a contract that will allow the aquarium to sign with Pepsi Cola, trustees recorded the motion and the item passed by voice vote.

The authority also received a construction update on the aquarium’s new large-animal holding facility. Aquarium staff said work was delayed after a moisture problem in the new concrete prevented the epoxy floor specified in the contract from being applied on schedule. Independent testing later showed the concrete had dried to acceptable levels, staff said, and the project will not require backing out of the general contract.

Aquarium presenter Alexopoulos told trustees that the contractor initially suggested expensive mitigation products but those were not required after additional testing confirmed the concrete met moisture thresholds. “So it kinda delayed other things. So the good thing is we don't have to back anything out of the contract. And so that means there's no unknown costs that are gonna be around the corner. And, so, you know, we're in good shape and and, I think we're still fine with April,” Alexopoulos said.

As part of finishing decisions, aquarium staff said they removed synthetic Trex decking from the project in favor of pressure-treated lumber, which staff said is easier to repair and less slippery; they estimated the change saved about $20,000. Staff also confirmed that epoxy flooring and the deck are included in the contractor’s original scope and will be completed under the contract.

Trustees heard brief updates on aquarium programs and fundraising. Staff listed upcoming events including Symphony by the Sea Feb. 5–7, the aquarium’s largest fundraiser “Splash” on March 1, and an aquarium run moved to June to include children’s big-wheel races. Authority staff also announced a $300,000 donation from the Oxley Foundation.

Trustees discussed a small advertising line item and whether it was included in the contract; staff pointed out the regular contract language referencing advertising under section 3, item B. The authority chair closed the Aquarium Authority portion of the meeting after trustees had no further questions.

Trustees voting on the Pepsi contract recorded yes votes during the roll call. No amendments to the contract were reported at the meeting.

The authority did not provide a new, firm opening date for the large-animal holding facility beyond the target of early April; staff said remaining interior work — HVAC, fixtures and shelving — is largely complete.