Boone County approves $21,530 change order for courthouse plumbing code work and wall finishes

Boone County commissioners voted Dec. 18 to approve Change Order 17 for the courthouse renovation, authorizing Scandali Construction to perform plumbing code upgrades and wall finishing for a total of $21,530.

The change order breaks down to roughly $9,800 for wall finish work in public areas (skimming old plaster to achieve a consistent appearance) and just over $11,000 for code-required plumbing upgrades, according to staff. Commissioners expressed frustration with repeated small change orders on the long-running project; several described the work as "nickel-and-diming," while project staff and consultants said many costs stem from unforeseen mechanical issues discovered in an older building and that some change orders will produce credits in the county's favor.

Architect Dan Saavedra and project staff said the change order focuses work on public areas to remain within the project budget and improve overall finished aesthetics. After discussion and clarification of necessary vs. cosmetic work, the board approved the change order by roll call.

Why it matters: The courthouse renovation involves integrating old and new construction across multiple architectural eras, which staff said creates unforeseen conditions and requires incremental change orders. Tracking these costs is important for budget oversight and contractor management.

Next step: The change order is approved and will be executed by Scandali Construction; staff said they will continue to review and negotiate change orders and seek credits where appropriate.