Board approves $24,729 concrete-floor change order for high school pole barn amid member concerns

The Egg Harbor Township Board approved a change order adding a concrete floor to a high school pole barn project at an added cost of $24,729, increasing the project cost from about $181,449 to roughly $206,178 after discussion about necessity and procurement.

During discussion a board member said they were wary of incremental increases: "I'm not a big fan of change orders because... I find it difficult when somebody comes back to you later and says, well, now we want more money to finish what it is that you want to accomplish," and asked for clearer upfront cost estimates on future projects.

Administration said the concrete floor was removed from the initial, full-scope bid to reduce the project cost, but after bids and on-site negotiation the contractor offered a lower-priced option for the floor and associated aprons. Mr. Smith said the concrete floor would protect equipment from weather, permit the installation of anchored heavy-duty shelving and make future expansion simpler.

A board member asked whether doors were included and where the structure would sit; administration indicated the building footprint is about 40 by 50 feet and would be located near the greenhouse. Another member who reviewed comparable quotes called the $24,000 estimate "a fair price" in light of local quotes for similar work.

Why it matters: facility projects and change orders affect capital budgets and maintenance plans; the board's scrutiny reflects concern about project management and ensuring value for taxpayer dollars.

Vote and next steps: recorded roll call indicated the consent package of finance items passed; the transcript records at least one board member voting no on item 8.18 and at least one abstention on certain purchase orders. Administration said the district will proceed with the change-order work to keep equipment protected and will provide any final specs and site plans as needed.

Ending: The board advanced the capital work after the vote, and members asked administration to seek greater clarity on total project scopes in future procurements.