Kearney schedules May 28 bid opening for Future Hall Park construction

The Kearney Parks & Recreation board was told the public bid opening for the Future Hall Park project will take place May 28 at 2:00 p.m. at the city meeting location, and that staff and the project architect will review submitted bids before forwarding a recommendation to Jefferson City for approval.

"May 28 at 2PM," Eric said when announcing the schedule and inviting board members to attend. He described the post-opening process: staff and the architect will examine bid tabs, check for omissions, and send a recommendation to the city representative in Jefferson City for a notice-to-proceed. Board members were advised they are welcome to attend the public opening to observe the tabulation.

Board discussion centered on grant rules and procurement practice. Staff noted that some grants permit accepting a non-lowest bid if justified under program criteria and said they have a responsive contact in Jefferson City who typically replies quickly on clarifying discrepancies. Members asked about contractor timelines; staff said the construction contract will include a standard completion window and penalties for delays.

Eric told the board that rising construction costs since design may require bidders to price alternates and that the board may later be asked to approve either an alternate scope or an additional funding request. He noted the city could seek up to a 20–25% increase to the total project if necessary and pursue additional LWCF match funding or have the city take the project on as a capital item if the grant is not awarded or is insufficient.