Council authorizes work order negotiations for Butler Rough Hollow park oversight; fee capped at $253,550

Council authorized the city manager to negotiate and execute a work order agreement with Pape Dawson Consulting Engineers to provide construction project management for Butler Rough Hollow Park, part of the 2024 parks improvement bond program. Staff said third‑party oversight is intended to augment city staff capacity as multiple large projects proceed simultaneously.

Director Bennett explained the consultant would coordinate contractors and designers, monitor schedule and budget, review pay applications and attend construction meetings. "This will help us stay on schedule, remain within budget, and meet city standards while also helping reduce risk and potential liability," the director said. Council members pressed staff on cost and alternatives — one councilor noted the proposed oversight fee approaches roughly 10% of the park’s $2.7 million construction budget and asked whether in‑house staffing had been considered. Staff replied that scope and overlapping timelines make supplemental external oversight prudent. A motion to approve the authorization passed 5–1. Staff said they will bring the construction bid recommendation next month and confirmed the requested not‑to‑exceed amount of $253,550.