District says turf fields not yet released; contractor negotiations and Proposition 2 master plan underway

The board heard an extended facilities update on Dec. 18 covering recently completed projects, ongoing construction and the district’s five‑year master plan.

Facilities consultant Mr. Hakey told trustees that new artificial turf fields installed over the summer at several elementary sites are not yet released because the installations do not meet the district’s specifications. The district has raised the issues with the vendor and is seeking a negotiated concession (presenter said roughly 15%) and other warranty remedies; some work performed without authorization had created muddy, unsafe areas that the vendor has been asked to rectify.

Mr. Hakey reviewed completed classroom renovations (Taylor rooms 11 and 12), a relocated classroom to Glenwood and the new preschool on the Bell campus. He summarized ongoing work at Maine Avenue (TK/PreK construction), noted that architect contracts are in place, and confirmed the district submitted state reimbursement applications for eligible projects. He described the Proposition 2 compliance tasks (deferred maintenance plan, asset inventory) and said Hicken Associates is under contract to develop the facilities master plan; district inspections of all sites are scheduled during winter break to populate a central "toolbox" spreadsheet of projects, budgets and work orders.

Trustees asked about alternative food‑service models; the consultant described a mobile food‑truck/produce truck approach used in Monterey County as a lower‑cost alternative to a $7 million central kitchen. Trustees and staff discussed staffing and safety if the district pursues mobile options.

On shade structures, Mr. Hakey said DSA approval of footing designs and ADA path requirements have delayed permanent installations; materials are on hand and the district expects installations to proceed once approvals are complete.

No formal action was taken; staff will return with an updated timeline, negotiation outcomes with the turf vendor and a formal facilities master plan schedule.