Guaranteed maximum price of $1.745 million approved for campus high school CTE site package

The school board approved a guaranteed maximum price (GMP 1B.1) of $1.745 million for the campus high school career-technical-education (CTE) site package after a presentation from Hutton and a brief board discussion.

The GMP covers site demolition, earthwork to create the building pad, sidewalks, paving and curb and gutter work, utility tie-ins (including a grease interceptor for the culinary area) and a $60,000 allowance for unforeseen rework, Kyle of Hutton said. "The total dollar amount is 1.745 million," Kyle said while presenting the proposal letter and bid table.

Board members asked for details before the vote. One member asked how many parking stalls would be lost; presenters said the impact was minimal, approximately six spaces. Presenters also warned that the south campus entrance will be closed for construction from July of this year through August of next year and said they had coordinated that timing with stakeholders, including Shane Seely and Mr. Cely.

After the presentation, Jennifer moved to approve GMP number 1B.1; Kelly seconded. The board conducted a roll-call vote: Greg, Jeremy, Barb, Tasha, Kelly and Jennifer each voted yes and the motion passed 6–0.

In discussion preceding the vote, presenters clarified contract terms and allowances. They said the GMP is sales tax-exempt and that Davis-Bacon prevailing-wage rules do not apply to this contract. Presenters listed the contractors included in the GMP procurement as Burke Camp Construction (earthwork), Encore Pavement (site paving) and Apex Excavating (site utilities).

Presenters said procurement and mobilization would begin promptly if approved, with the goal of starting on-site work before the next school year. Kyle gave a working target of substantial completion in late 2027 and said the CTE addition is planned to open in the 2027–28 school year. "If we have to maintain this as an exit, we will," Kyle said when describing how building doors and fire exits would be managed during work.

The board then moved on to an updated overview of the CTE building design and budget implications presented by Andrew, who walked the board through refined floor plans, the healthcare and culinary program layouts and security options for the building’s glass facade. On the healthcare space, Andrew noted revised teaching configurations that include space for "accommodating six beds" and phlebotomy stations to support clinical instruction.

On the glass facade, presenters described three options: bulletproof glass (very expensive), replacing the glass with brick (mid-level cost) or applying security film (the most economical option). Andrew said security film could be extended to other district entry points and that grant funds might be available to help with those upgrades. "Security film is one of those that at least lends itself to kind of a holistic approach towards the whole facility," he said.

Board members acknowledged a significant increase in CTE construction costs from earlier estimates but were told the overall program budget remains "on track" through scope adjustments and reallocation of work from other phases. One board member asked the administration to prepare a prioritization plan in case of a large shortfall or further scope creep so the board can make clear decisions if new cuts or reprioritization become necessary.

Next steps: staff and the design team will finalize drawings for the remaining CTE packages, Hutton will proceed with bidding where appropriate, and the board’s subteam will continue to monitor costs and report back if significant changes arise.