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Southborough CPC hears report that golf course irrigation bids exceed approved funds; staff outlines shortfall and next steps
Summary
Town project to replace an aging golf-course irrigation system drew an update showing the lowest responsive construction bid ($718,500) exceeds the $553,750 community-preservation appropriation; staff now estimate roughly $900,000 all‑in after required pump and limited value‑engineering savings. Committee requested clearer cost breakdowns, legal checks and a revised application before considering supplemental funding.
Bill Condiff, the town project lead, told the Community Preservation Committee on Jan. 28 that the replacement irrigation system for the Southborough golf course came in far higher than the $553,750 that voters approved. The original article authorized $475,000 for project costs and $78,750 for contingency; design work by Parr Corporation produced bid documents that drew a single responsive bid of $718,500.
Condiff said an irrigation specialty reviewer identified potential value‑engineering savings of up to $140,000 but also flagged the need for a pump station to achieve required water pressure. The pump would add approximately $200,000, bringing a realistic all‑in estimate to about $900,000, he said. Condiff described timing constraints and erosion‑control sequencing as additional cost drivers.
Committee members asked whether the golf course’s revolving fund or future course revenue could be tapped to repay CPA funds, and whether the town’s conservation restriction (CR) and its holder (SVT) would allow construction of a pump station. Freddie, CPC staff, said her preliminary understanding is that the CR permits the activity but that she would verify and consult counsel.
The committee did not vote on funding. Instead members asked for a revised application and a ledger of the golf course revolving account, a clear, line‑item cost breakdown from the design team, confirmation from counsel and SVT about CR compliance for the pump station, and an indication from the golf course committee about whether it will request supplemental funds from the select board or a future town meeting. The CPC invited Bill and representatives of the golf course committee to return to the next meeting with those materials.
