Board hears referendum project 'substantially complete' but punch-list, sidewalks remain

The Lac qui Parle Valley Schools board was told the district's referendum construction work has reached substantial completion, but multiple punch-list items remain and concrete sidewalks still need repair.

A district staff member introduced the construction update, saying the project is at the substantial-completion stage while delivering a plan for remaining tasks. The board was told Karina Erickson will transition into a district role while another staffer will transition out, which prompted a request for a focused update on outstanding items and schedule.

Construction representative Joe said crews have finished major items, the concession stand is in use and the district has a certificate of occupancy, but several small interior and exterior defects are being worked through. "We have the certificate of occupancy, so that has been used," Joe said, noting the concession stand and other spaces are operational while punch-list fixes continue.

Joe said work on sidewalks hinges on receiving concrete-mix samples and paperwork from contractor Todd Grant. He recommended remove-and-replace for defective sidewalks if mix options are unacceptable, and said the design team must review any proposed topping or alternate mix before work proceeds. "Once I get that paperwork reviewed and the design team approves the fix, then we will get that moving forward," Joe said.

Board members asked whether sidewalk repairs could be completed before the next school year; Joe said, depending on the contractor's paperwork and weather, repairs could be completed prior to school resuming. He added the contractor is aware of incentives to avoid delay and that either he or district staff will perform final inspections once corrections are complete.

Next steps identified for the board: await the contractor paperwork and mix verification, allow the design team to review options, and schedule remedial work once an approved solution is in hand.