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Orleans Parish School Board approves $10.95M contract for Ninth Ward multi-sport venue; legal waiver also approved
Summary
The board approved a $10,950,000 base bid from TKTMJ Inc. for a multi-sport venue in Eastern New Orleans/Lower Ninth Ward and later granted a conflict waiver allowing Phelps Dunbar LLP to represent the district in matters involving that bidder; the waiver passed 6 in favor with one abstention.
The Orleans Parish School Board voted to accept the base bid from TKTMJ Inc. for a multi-sport venue in Eastern New Orleans and the Lower Ninth Ward, in the total amount of $10,950,000 (ITB 26-FAC-0053). The motion was moved by Mr. Marshall and seconded by Ms. Bodwin; the board approved the award at the April 20 meeting.
Board members asked staff about procurement vetting and the risk of construction change orders. District staff said the procurement process reviewed bidder qualifications and noted that the procurement package indicated the contractor has relevant community projects; staff added that change orders are a common feature of construction projects and that the district will aim to minimize them but could not guarantee none would occur.
Several board members acknowledged long-standing community involvement and fundraising that helped advance the project, including work by local fundraisers and partners. Board members also noted funding partners including the City of New Orleans and state support.
On a related legal matter the board considered Action Item 3.2: a request to waive any potential conflict of interest involving Phelps Dunbar LLP's prior representation of TKTMJ Inc. in unrelated litigation. President Eames moved the waiver; Ms. Biro seconded. The motion carried with six votes in favor and one abstention from Ms. Griffin. The general counsel was authorized to execute the necessary documents to effectuate the waiver.
What comes next: With contract award and waiver approved, staff and procurement will proceed with initial contracting steps and project mobilization; board members requested follow-up on bidder references, prior work for the district (if any), and a plan to limit avoidable change orders.
