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Board tables $64,364.94 security purchase for Cape Center after trustees question scope and prior contract fulfillment
Summary
Trustees voted to table a proposed $64,364.94 turnkey purchase for access control and video surveillance at the Cape Center, asking for a review of the initial contract, a detailed scope of work for the $50,112 installation line, and a company representative to clarify deliverables.
The Benton Harbor Area Schools Board on Feb. 10 tabled a facilities purchase for access control and indoor video surveillance at the district’s Cape Center, citing unclear scope and concern that prior work promised under an earlier contract may be incomplete.
Director (facilities) presented a CDW proposal to install access controls on nine single doors and one double door and to add four indoor cameras. The packet listed a total project cost of $64,364.94, broken out as $14,252.94 for hardware/software and $50,112 for installation and professional services.
Several trustees questioned why the district was being charged roughly $50,000 for installation of a limited set of doors and cameras and asked whether previously promised equipment had been delivered to all buildings. Treasurer Gavin and others said they believed the district had already paid for comprehensive security upgrades and wanted verification that CDW (or the prior vendor) delivered all contracted items to every building.
Trustees asked the director to provide the original scope and any change orders (including a June 2025 change noted in the record), and requested a clear scope of work that explains the $50,112 installation/professional-services line. Trustee Gavin moved to table FAC1 pending that review; the motion was seconded and carried by recorded vote.
The director said she would contact the company for clarification and return with documentation. Trustees asked that a company representative be invited to the facilities committee meeting or a subsequent board session to explain the installation scope, prior deliverables and any outstanding items before the board considers approval.
The tabling preserves the current budget position; trustees emphasized that they want verification that the district received deliverables it previously paid for and a detailed installation scope before authorizing additional funds.
