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Board approves several construction change orders, seeks oversight on change-order process
Summary
Trustees approved a package of administrative-services change orders and contract increases (items 15, 17—122), including an electrical redesign for a new classroom audio/PA system and unforeseen-condition work at multiple sites; board members pressed staff on vetting, tariffs and labor-compliance costs.
The Anaheim Elementary School District board voted May 14 to approve several administrative-services change orders and contract increases tied to ongoing reconstruction and site-improvement projects.
Assistant Superintendent Matthew Slusser explained several of the pulled consent items before the vote. Item 15 adds architectural services (agreement with LPA) to update electrical plans and integrate a Bogan Nyquist classroom audio and schoolwide PA system into the Patrick Henry reconstruction, an upgrade Slusser said is "most beneficial for safety communication at our sites." The requested increase for that work was presented as approximately $70,000.
Other approved changes included an additive change order at Benito Juarez to bring ceiling insulation up to code and install electric hand dryers; additional destructive materials testing and special inspection services for multipurpose rooms at Benito Juarez and another site; and modest unforeseen-condition modifications at Paul Revere (doors, overhang/flashing and bifold doors) intended to improve durability and user experience. The board also approved an increase for labor-compliance services tied to nine preschool playground/shade projects being paid from Fund 12.
Board members repeatedly asked how the district evaluates change orders and whether items are negotiated rather than rubber-stamped. Slusser described the facilities team's review process: "We break it apart. Is it really needed? Is it fair?" He added that some projects yield deductive change orders and credits back to the district.
The board vote to approve items 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 carried 4-0.
Why it matters: The change orders cover safety and code compliance (PA/intercom upgrades, insulation, waterproofing and certified payroll compliance) and represent district oversight of multi-site construction funded from bond and restricted capital funds. Trustees emphasized the need to balance cost control with necessary adjustments uncovered during construction.
Next steps: Staff will proceed with the approved amendments and continue to negotiate and vet change-order requests before board consideration.
