Board hears concerns about unusually large change orders on summer construction projects

Board discussion on Sept. 10 focused on two consent items involving construction contract modifications. Commissioner Wynne sought a better way to explain when contracts are expanded across projects and raised alarm at an example percentage cited in the agenda (4,435.62%). She asked whether the board should consider different agenda language or contracting approaches when the district maintains ongoing relationships with contractors and adds multiple projects.

David Golden, the district’s chief facility officer, responded that industry norms for change orders are typically 10–15 percent, but summer modernization and urgent work to open schools can produce higher percentages. Golden cited specific circumstances: an earthquake‑related structural repair on the Jackson Building's fourth floor revealed rotten walls once opened, forcing immediate corrective work rather than delaying and rebidding; at Bridle Hart the district completed approximately three quarters of a million dollars in modernization to address dry rot and other issues and to improve the building’s appearance as part of turnaround efforts. Golden acknowledged the perception risk of high change‑order percentages but argued the decisions were made to avoid school‑opening delays and to address unforeseen site conditions.

Commissioner Wynne asked the district to consider alternate ways to present or categorize these contract changes for clearer public understanding; Golden said staff could follow up. The items were then taken together for roll call and approved by the board.