Sumner-Bonney Lake board adopts GCCM approach for three bond projects, approves architect and construction agreements

The Sumner-Bonney Lake School District Board on Feb. 17 approved using the General Contractor/Construction Manager (GCCM) procurement method for three bond-funded capital projects and authorized related contracts and resolutions.

District presenters Marina Tierney and Matt (surname not stated), who led a detailed briefing for the board, said GCCM was chosen because the projects involve occupied campuses, tight sites and complex tie-ins that make early contractor involvement necessary to manage schedule, safety and risk. "We select the contractor early based on a combination of qualifications and fees," Matt said, describing how a selected contractor joins the design team to help shape packages and price long-lead items ahead of construction.

Tierney emphasized the district’s plan to use GCCM to expand opportunities for local small, minority-, women- and veteran-owned firms by breaking large work scopes into smaller bid packages and providing contractor support so that local firms can meet public-works requirements. "One of the things that I appreciate the most is the opportunity to really create impact in our community with these projects," she said.

The district said the GCCM approach will be used on the Bonney Lake High School expansion, Sumner High Phase 2 and the Tehaleh Heights Elementary expansion. Presenters described "mini-MAC" early packages for long-lead items such as structural steel and elevator systems to avoid schedule delays and to enable just-in-time deliveries.

Following the presentation, the board adopted Resolution No. 132526 authorizing the superintendent to execute an owner-architect agreement with McGranahan PBK for Tehaleh Heights Elementary expansion. The board then approved the McGranahan PBK agreement (contract B103-2017) for the project and adopted Resolution No. 12 25 26 authorizing designated personnel to sign and act on behalf of the district for matters related to state school construction funding. Motions for these items were moved and seconded and the motions carried as recorded in the meeting minutes.

District staff said the board will see future requests to approve GCCM hires, maximum allowable construction costs (MACs) and any early mini-MAC packages as preconstruction work and cost models are finalized. Staff also said the bond oversight committee is informed and may have representatives observe architect and contractor selection processes but is not a voting member.

The board framed success metrics for the work as: on-time delivery, coming in under the MAC where possible, student/staff safety, and meaningful participation by smaller local contractors. The board will receive ongoing updates on budget, schedule and participation outcomes as projects move through preconstruction and procurement.