Cambria board adopts procurement integrity measures for Main Street skate park, extends bid deadline

The Cambria Community Services District on Tuesday voted to adopt Resolution 24-2026 directing staff to issue a bid addendum for the Main Street skate park project to address procurement integrity concerns and to preserve competition.

General Manager Michael McElhaney told the board the addendum would ‘‘revise liquidated damages rate from $3,000 per day to $1,500 per day and extend the bid deadline to 06/22/2026 at 11AM,’’ changes staff said are intended to support competitive bidding and reduce the risk of bid protests. District counsel emphasized the changes aim to convert prescriptive specifications into performance‑based language so that equivalent products may be offered.

Outside counsel Mr. Carmel explained that the existing plans included specification language tied to a single designer and system, which ‘‘resembles the de facto design‑build arrangement, which the district is not legally allowed to implement,’’ creating a risk of litigation and costly protest delays. Paul Owen of the firm assisting with the bid packet told directors that legal challenges can delay construction and drive up costs.

Director Gray moved adoption of the resolution; a friendly amendment recognizing Spahn Ranch s a long‑time partner was added. The motion passed on roll call: Director Gray (Aye), Director Thomas (No), Vice President Dean (Aye), Director Scott (Yes), President Farmer (No). The board directed staff to issue the addendum and also included language that the action does not preclude the district from hiring Aaron Spahn or Spahn Ranch as a consultant separate from the bid process.

The board and counsel repeatedly cited the goal of ‘‘leveling the playing field’’ so qualified contractors will bid and to avoid a situation where bidders decline to participate because specifications appear restrictive. President Farmer said the board remains committed to completing the project and that ‘‘the process moves forward.’”