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Officials describe bid disparities, alternates for elementary auxiliary‑gym work
Summary
Architects and staff reviewed base work and alternates for an elementary auxiliary‑gym project, noting a wide price gap for alternates explained by one bidder performing electrical work in‑house; the resolution on bids will be considered by the full board.
District staff introduced the elementary‑schools auxiliary gym project and identified project representatives from Murray Architects and construction leads. Mike Tab of Murray Architects explained the project scope and the inclusion of two alternates: higher windows (to add natural light) and accent lighting.
Tab and other staff described a large disparity among alternate bids. "TA does all electrical themselves," Tab said, explaining that one low bidder keeps cost down by using in‑house electrical crews rather than subcontracting. Staff also said some contractors submitted late competitive subcontractor bids, and that differing subcontractor choices can move prices significantly.
Staff noted the high‑window alternate was priced at about $153,720 compared with other alternates and that, combined, the three options still left the project comfortably under budget according to staff estimates. Committee members asked questions about bidder intent and sub‑contracting; staff said alternates were included so the district could proceed with a base project if certain options exceeded budget. No formal committee award or contract was finalized at the meeting; staff will present recommendations to the full board.
