Board asks for more time, community input on bond project priorities; staff to present bids and costs

Board members pressed staff to give the board and community more time to review detailed project estimates and bid packages before approving specific bond-funded contracts. One member urged, "I don't want this on the committee the same night we're voting on it. This needs more time ... give us 30 days to look at it so that we can really dive into it." The committee asked Craig to collect all project cost estimates and to present them at a committee meeting well before any vote.

Staff explained that while the bond authorization sets the overall borrowing authority, the board will still vote on individual project contracts (after competitive bids are received per procurement requirements). Members suggested staggering project presentations and allowing a month (or more for high-profile items) between public presentation and a vote so the community can provide feedback and board members can study documentation.

Practical items discussed included: obtaining three bids on larger projects, clarifying criteria when the board may select non-lowest bids (quality or scope justification), and confirming advertising/notice requirements if meeting times change. The board and staff also discussed scheduling a full-board working session in late August or early September to review budget-direction items for 2027–28 and to provide directives to administration.

Next steps: Craig will compile project-level costs and procurements; staff will present project packages at committee, allow for at least 30 days of review, and then schedule contract votes in subsequent meetings.