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Board approves short extension for construction controls contract amid procurement concerns
Summary
The school board approved a short extension for a construction management/controls contract (Atkins) after members pressed staff about timing, accountability, and the risk of 'gun‑to‑our‑head' procurements. Vote passed 5–3 on Feb. 10.
The Broward County School Board narrowly approved an extension of a construction‑controls contract on Feb. 10 after a prolonged debate about procurement timing, accountability and the risk of approving contracts close to expiration.
Board members raised concerns that the Atkins controls contract would expire before a replacement program manager contract (AECOM equivalent) could be procured. Several members urged tighter contract tracking and stronger performance accountability clauses. "There should be a list of our top 100 contracts and when each one is up," Dr. Zeman said, urging staff to bring solicitations earlier to avoid paying premium prices when competition is last-minute.
Staff response: General Counsel Jack Adams and district staff said section 3.05 of the existing agreement permits termination with or without cost and that the procurement team has been working to mirror timelines to prevent gaps. Staff said a solicitation for successor contracts would be ready well before expiration to avoid emergency extensions.
Vote and outcome: The board approved the contract extension in a roll-call vote, 5–3. The extension was described by staff as necessary to maintain continuity on large capital projects while solicitations move forward.
Why it matters: The contract and its timing are tied to many capital projects across the district; members warned that recurring late procurements can increase costs and reduce competition. Several board members asked for a contract tracker and clearer accountability measures for future solicitations.
What’s next: Staff committed to return with a workshop showing specific roles of Atkins and how the district will hold program managers accountable. Legal counsel will provide contract details and options for termination clauses if the board requests them.
