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Architect says low bidder’s in-house electrical work explains disparity on elementary gym alternates
Summary
Project team reviewed bids for an elementary school auxiliary gym, noting a low bidder (Tela) priced electrical work in-house, which explained a large disparity on alternates; staff said combined figures remain under budget and recommended proceeding with base project if needed.
The committee examined bids and alternates for an elementary school auxiliary gym project. Staff introduced the project team from Murray Architects and said the low bidder’s pricing on alternates—particularly high windows and accent lighting—showed a significant disparity. Architect Mike Tabb explained the difference: "The biggest disparity with that is Tela does all electrical themselves," and that Tela’s use of in-house electrical crews reduced subcontractor markups.
Committee members asked whether alternate items should be executed given the variance; staff said alternates were included to manage budget risk and that even with alternates the combined numbers were still comfortably under the project budget. The team noted Tela has worked with the district previously and that, where alternates exceed budget, staff would still recommend proceeding with the base project.
