Magnolia ISD board approves construction-manager-at-risk approach, selects Stewart Builders and BNC (contingent on 2025 bond)

The Magnolia Independent School District Board on Monday approved using the construction-manager-at-risk (CMAR) delivery method for planned new-construction projects and authorized two firms — Stewart Builders and BNC Constructors — to provide CMAR services if the district’s proposed 2025 bond passes.

A district presenter explained the CMAR approach as a team-based delivery model that allows for earlier contractor involvement, collaborative scope development and the potential to set a guaranteed maximum price. The presenter emphasized transparency and board input during selection and contract development.

Trustees first voted to approve the use of a CMAR delivery method contingent on the 2025 bond; the motion was recorded as "Motion by Sonia, seconded by Jay," and was announced as passed by voice vote. Later the board approved Stewart Builders and BNC Constructors to provide CMAR services for the listed new-construction projects as part of the 2025 bond program, contingent on bond approval and based on qualifications cited under a government statute referenced in the meeting.

"Again, we have input on that," the presenter said, describing how the district and board would participate in contractor selection and scope decisions. Trustees asked procedural questions about advertising and scoring criteria; the presenter confirmed selection criteria would be posted and that the process has produced projects under budget in past uses.

The board cited a government code provision during the Stewart/BNC motion; the transcript references a procurement citation as stated at the meeting. Both motions were conditioned on the bond passing and did not obligate district funds until the bond is approved by voters.

Next steps: staff will proceed with advertising and the scoring/selection process, and any contract awards will return to the board for formal approval if and when the bond election passes.