Government center construction on schedule; change orders total about $51,000 and furniture plan accelerated

County project managers told the board the government center construction remains largely on schedule despite cold-weather delays. Contractors are adding manpower to catch up and the contractor expected to pour half of the second-floor decking within one to two weeks before framing exterior walls.

Monty reviewed change-order activity: "In February, there have been 10 change orders approved so far with a grand total of $51,009.62," he said, which he noted is roughly 4.8% of the $1.1 million construction contingency. Examples included roughing in future power assist doors (PR02) and adding fire dampers to the HVAC that serves the data center (PR08), a safety and efficiency item identified by the architect and construction manager.

The board credited contractor-identified cost savings in one instance—use of larger retaining blocks produced a $13,000 savings—and discussed the administrator’s $30,000 approval threshold for change orders. Project accounting is handled monthly and the county draws bond proceeds first, then county resources as needed.

Monty also explained an accelerated furniture, fixtures and equipment (FFE) schedule: because floor boxes on the second floor will be drilled rather than set in forms, an approved furniture plan is needed by July–August so long-lead-time items can be ordered. Fluid, the chosen furniture vendor, will meet with departments and commissioners to establish standards for cube and office configurations before final sign-off.

Next steps: staff will continue monthly budget tracking, monitor change orders against contingency, and return to the board with details when necessary. Commissioners will set a date for FFE standards review sessions in March or reschedule to ensure full participation.