Shafter authorizes up to $2.7M modular building contract for Aquatic Center and an additional $63,900 appropriation

Public Works Director Michael James told the council that formal bidding for an Aquatic Center modular building yielded no responsive bids during the advertised period. Staff solicited a cost proposal from JTS Modular (Bakersfield), which recently completed a city substation project; JTS proposed a base cost of approximately $2,445,000. Public Works recommended the city exercise the no‑bid negotiation option applicable in no‑bid scenarios and authorize a contract not to exceed $2.7 million to account for contingencies and unresolved site work.

James noted that the project does not include some site work (utilities, parking, ramps) that remain under design and would be bid separately. The current fiscal year included $3 million for the project; after prior commitments for engineering and design and the reallocation of some ARPA funds to other pressing projects, the city’s available budget is roughly $2.85 million, which staff said is sufficient to cover the $2.7 million authorization if Council approves a supplemental general‑fund appropriation of $63,900 to replace ARPA previously applied to the project.

Council Member Alvarado moved to authorize award of a contract to JTS Modular not to exceed $2.7 million and to appropriate $63,900 from the general fund; Council Member Espinosa seconded and the motion passed by roll call. Staff estimated the modular building construction would take roughly nine months and likely not be available for the upcoming high‑school swim season; the building may be completed early next year and ready for summer programming.

What comes next: Staff will finalize contract documents, execute the agreement with JTS Modular if awarded, then return to council for any additional contract or budget actions for site work as needed.