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Board approves consultant contract to pursue state match funding for Measure K projects
Summary
The board approved a not‑to‑exceed $100,000 contract with Hancock Park & Dong to support eligibility calculations and state match requests for Measure K school projects; staff said $20,000 is the likely minimum cost and appealed to the vendor's capacity to navigate OPSC rules.
The Santa Maria‑Bonita School District board approved a contract with Hancock Park & Dong Inc. to help the district maximize eligibility and state matching funds tied to Measure K‑funded school projects.
"The lowest amount we think that we'll incur is about $20,000," district staff said, explaining the $100,000 figure is a not‑to‑exceed cap to cover potential extended work including exceptions, OPSC meetings and possible hearings. Staff said Hancock Park & Dong's experience at the Office of Public School Construction and with eligibility regulations makes them a practical partner for maximizing state matching funds.
Board members asked how the $100,000 cap was derived and how long the firm would be on retainer; staff said the fee is largely based on hourly rates and the variable nature of the exceptions process. A board member noted the district is chasing roughly $20 million in potential matching funds for Measure K projects, and that getting the paperwork right is critical.
The motion to approve the contract was made, seconded and carried by roll call. No board member recorded opposition.
Why it matters: The vendor will assist the district in complex eligibility work for facility funding that could yield multimillion‑dollar matches. Staff emphasized that most work is expected to fall well below the $100,000 cap but that the cap safeguards against underestimating time required.
Ending: The board approved the contract and directed staff to proceed with the engagement with Hancock Park & Dong Inc.
