Ozark R-VI board approves construction change orders, records bond-money savings and roof repair costs

The Ozark R-VI School Board approved construction change orders that reflected project savings and costs related to a recent roof repair.

District staff and a project representative told trustees that four change orders from the Branco/Franco project returned contingency and unused allowances. The presenter said the returned amount was about $1,921,106 plus an earlier $1.3 million return earlier in the year, and described the results as "really good management and partnership" between the district and contractors.

Trustees then considered South roof change order No. 2 after staff said heavy rain during roof tear-off caused damage that required immediate remediation. The district accrued $133,544.36 in expenses for emergency cleanup and replacements, the presenter said; the contractor agreed to a $171,044.36 deduct to the overall price that includes liquidated damages. The presenter said the costs are paid from bond funds restricted to uses listed on the ballot, such as renovations and additions.

Board members asked whether the contractor had agreed to the amounts; the presenter said signature on the change order confirms contractor agreement. Trustees moved and approved the change order; the chair announced a unanimous approval for the South roof change order.

The board approved the projects' final motion(s) on the agenda and proceeded to the next items. District officials said the savings will remain in a restricted bond account and be available for other ballot-authorized facility projects.