Board awards $998,750 HVAC contract for J Valley; approves 5% contingency, forgoing Manili work now

The Douglas County School District board unanimously approved a contract to replace rooftop HVAC units at J Valley Elementary with Echo, accepting the additive alternate price of $998,750 and authorizing up to a 5% contingency for potential change orders. Trustee Jansen moved the contract award, and Mr. Zinci seconded the motion.

Scott McCulla, county project representative, reviewed the bid package and confirmed contractors would perform work on whichever sites the board approved; the contract as bid included CC Manili as a base bid with an additive alternate for J Valley. Given the board’s consolidation decision removing CC Manili from educational use, trustees discussed awarding J Valley only.

Public commenters cautioned that leaving CC Manili without updated HVAC could harm the building’s future usability or sale value and increase the risk of freeze-related damage if the building sits vacant without functioning heat. Mr. Swisser noted that if the district intends never to use the building again, not installing HVAC might be appropriate; others warned the lack of climate control could lower resale offers.

Superintendent Alvarado recommended proceeding with the J Valley work to preserve capital and help the district’s near-term fiscal picture, and suggested routine checks on the vacant Manili building by district HVAC staff while the district decides long-term disposition.

Next steps: the contract will be executed with Echo for J Valley for $998,750, with superintendent authorization for up to 5% in change orders for unforeseen conditions; staff will monitor the vacant CC Manili facility and report back if HVAC failure or additional risks are detected.