Helix board accepts KNCC $853,398 GMP for shop remodel, moves forward with CM/GC plan for gym seismic work

The Helix School Board accepted a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) of $853,398 from Kirby Nagelhout Construction Company (KNCC) for the Helix Shop CTE remodel at a special meeting on Dec. 23, 2025. The board recorded a unanimous vote to carry the motion (Yea: 5).

KNCC representative Shawn Towne reviewed the GMP summary and explained that several bid items included allowances that would be returned to the budget if not needed. Towne said KNCC expedited subcontractor procurement to capture current BOLI wage rates and that a preliminary schedule had been provided to the district. Board members asked about long-lead items such as electrical panels and whether district staff would be able to manage Owner responsibilities for the project’s Owner categories; Superintendent Brad Bixler said those responsibilities would rest with him and with "Arnold and Madelin" as discussed during the meeting materials.

The board also previously approved the use of the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) delivery method for the main gym seismic rehabilitation, authorizing RFP solicitation based on a Finding of Fact (motion by Bobby Corey; seconded by Friday Bracher). The CM/GC decision is tied to the project timeline and to a separate Seismic Rehabilitation Grant that the district has been awarded; IMEG is leading planning for the seismic work and held a mandatory walkthrough for proposers in early January.

Next steps for the remodel include final owner budgeting, permit approvals and execution of KNCC contract documents; for the seismic gym project the district will proceed with RFP evaluation and selection per the timeline presented by IMEG. The district asked staff to confirm budget capacity and confirm which owner-purchased items will remain the district’s responsibility before signing final construction contracts.