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Developer cites design changes and equipment requests for delay at Spec Building 9
Summary
Sarah Evers of the Development Group told the Hardee County EDA that Spec Building 9 at Commerce Park has moved to interior work after exterior progress, but scope changes — including a requested dust-collection HVAC redesign that Debut later declined — have delayed the original completion schedule.
Sarah Evers, a Development Group representative, told the Hardee County Economic Development Authority that exterior vertical construction on Spec Building 9 (Lot 27) is proceeding and the project has received approval for an interior build‑out permit.
"As we moved through the interior design, Debut has had a lot of growth over the last couple of years," Evers said, describing requests to upsize HVAC for a client‑specific dust‑collection system that required returning to permitting and redesign. She said Debut ultimately decided not to proceed with the expensive dust‑collection system, which forced another redesign back to the original HVAC intent.
Evers said the team had purchased the metal structure in 2022 and began civil design in 2021; long lead times for materials post‑COVID contributed to construction delays. She said the project team is finishing the guaranteed maximum price and expects to begin interior framing soon, with an anticipated completion moving beyond the original certificate of occupancy date because of the redesigns and scope changes.
Commissioners asked about time on site and procurement choices. Commissioner Wells said he was satisfied after the explanation that the structure purchase and supply chain delays were major contributors. Evers reiterated that some cost elements beyond the IDA’s committed scope were borne by Debut when first requested and later adjusted.
The presentation also referenced coordination with Culver’s on closing dates tied to a related relocation agreement; Evers said Culver’s and legal counsel have discussed right‑of‑way dedication and remain engaged as the schedule flexes.
The authority did not take a separate vote on the update; follow‑up questions on schedule and cost allocations were directed to staff for additional detail.
