Committee tables $31,574 sump-pump PCO for CTC elevator due to scope and cost uncertainty

The committee tabled a $31,574 owner-request change order to install a recessed sump and associated electrical/plumbing work at the CTC building’s lower-level elevator shaft after members raised questions about scope, constructibility and cost.

Mr. Bates described a recurring groundwater infiltration issue on the lower level and proposed a permanent solution that would recess a sump into the elevator pit, set a pump and provide electrical and drainage connections. The PCO as submitted included excavation, saw cutting and a recessed 30‑inch sump and associated mechanical and electrical work.

Members noted the elevator shaft is decommissioned and debated whether the district could instead place a pump at grade in an adjacent mechanical room and route drainage out of the building, avoiding the extra excavation and potential ledge costs. Concerns included maintenance and access, whether code would require a recessed sump even in an abandoned shaft, and unknown costs if ledge is encountered.

After extended discussion the committee agreed to table the PCO to obtain a full price for the complete, lowest-point solution and to refine scope. Committee members proposed amending the change order to remove manifold and welding allowances now and treat them as an allowance to be reconciled when final access costs are known. The committee agreed emergency approval authority exists if conditions require immediate action before the next meeting.

The motion to table carried by consensus. Staff were directed to return with a consolidated cost estimate and the committee asked staff to consider a recessed solution (lowest point) versus a non‑recessed pump-on-grade approach and to specify any added demo costs if the recessed approach is selected.