Board ratifies contractor default for Sulphur High School hurricane repairs, authorizes superintendent to complete project

The Calcasieu Parish School Board on Feb. 11 ratified the superintendent’s declaration of default and the termination of the general contractor on the Sulphur High School hurricane-repair project (project HL052-011) and authorized the superintendent to execute contracts and other documents necessary to complete the work.

Board staff explained the contractor repeatedly fell behind schedule, failed to pay subcontractors and prompted liens. The district said it has withheld sufficient funds to satisfy subcontractor claims and that the architect recommended declaring default. With the contractor removed, the district will work with the project’s surety, which will take over the contract and engage another general contractor to finish the job. Staff said the district does not anticipate adding funds beyond the original contract amount; if the replacement contractor’s price exceeds the original bid, the surety will cover the difference.

Board members asked whether the problems were isolated to this contract or present on other jobs in the parish; staff said there are two other jobs with limited problems and another smaller site that might face similar issues but is less extensive. The board ratified the superintendent’s action by voice vote and the motion carried.

Board action authorizes the superintendent to sign necessary documents to maintain progress on the Sulphur High project and directs continued coordination with the architect and surety to protect subcontractor payments and keep the schedule moving.