Board approves major school renovation GMPs, hears update on Dutton sale and Calplex lighting

The Caledonia Community Schools Board on Dec. 15 approved two major guaranteed maximum price (GMP) amendments for district construction projects and heard staff updates on property and facility initiatives.

Trustee Speaker 5 moved and the board approved a GMP amendment with Christman Company to begin contracts for the 2026 Duncan Lake Middle School renovation. The motion listed individual trade awards that sum to a total construction cost of $4,442,030 and an overall project maximum cost of $5,813,477, which includes contingencies, builder’s risk insurance and fees. Board members and staff discussed how a GMP sets an outer limit and incorporates contingency funds to address unforeseen conditions in renovation work.

The board also approved a GMP amendment for the Calplex project with Rockford Construction that incorporated previously approved trade contracts totaling $4,481,584 and established a total project maximum cost of $5,898,561. Board discussion noted the board is authorizing an overall maximum price but hopes to manage the project under that ceiling.

On non-vote items, staff previewed a proposed purchase agreement with Kent ISD for the district’s former Dutton Elementary property; ISD officials are planning to use the site as a tech center to expand career and technical education opportunities in the south end of the county. Staff said paperwork and a purchase agreement are expected in January for board consideration.

Staff also presented a first reading of CALPLEX phase 2 field lighting for a new large baseball field, explaining the district plans to purchase light heads, poles and controls through a cooperative contract to reduce costs and maintain compatible control systems with existing Musco installations. Separately, an RFP for a five-year lawn and landscape contract (27 cuts per season plus cleanups) is due Jan. 7; staff highlighted a 90-day exit clause in the five‑year contract to protect the district and contractors.

The actions on the Duncan Lake and Calplex GMPs were approved by roll call during the meeting; staff will proceed to implement the GMP contracts and manage construction contingencies per board direction.