2003-03-12 School Committee Minutes - Finance Committee

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Reading School Committee Reading, Massachusetts Regular Session /Joint Meeting with the FinCom March 12, 2003 CALL TO ORDER Mr. Dahl called the regular session meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. at the Town Hall Lower Level Conference Room. Present were Mr. McFadden, Mr. Russo, Mr. Twomey and Mr. Dahl. Mr. Griset arrived at 7:08.. Mrs. Cavicchi arrived at 7:05 and Mr. Griset arrived at 7:10. FLANSBURGH PRESENTATION Architect Daniel Gorini from Flansburgh and Associates gave an overview of J &J /J &W, A Joint Venture, the apparent low bidder for the Elementary School Project. He explained that Dr. Harutunian asked him to look into the background of J &J and their financials. With written permission from the Superintendent, Flansburgh went to the Division of Capital Asset Management to review the files of J &J and the next two low bidders. He stated that J &J had a high numerical rating 96 out of 100 in eight categories. They maintain the quality of their work. Their references were positive. At Flansburgh there is another ongoing project, and J &J is the general contractor. Mr. Gorini spoke to the Project Manager. He heard good things. Dr. Harutunian stated that he called the Superintendent of Schools in Stoneham, Joe Connolly. Mr. Connolly stated that J &J was doing an exceptional job with only three change orders to date. The Stoneham Superintendent stated that J &J was extremely aggressive and on time. They are hoping to break ground before the end of the month. Mr. Twomey made a motion to award the new Elementary School Construction Contract to J &J /J &W, A Joint Venture for $8,647,000. Mrs. Cavicchi seconded the motion. The vote was 6 -0 Mrs Cavicchi, Mr. Dahl, Mr. Griset, Mr. McFadden, Mr. Russo, Mr. Twomey. Dr. Harutunian stated that there were three alternates concerning the project. They were not voting on these tonight. He still has some items to work out with the Town Manager. Mr. McFadden asked about the actual written contract. Dr. Harutunian explained that is was included. in the Project Specification Book. Mr. Livingstone will continue to represent the School Committee at all construction meetings. Dr. Harutunian congratulated the School Committee. Mr. Gorini was excused at 7:17 p.m. Mr. Griset stated that he had a conversation with Lyle Kirtman from Future Management Services. He was able to negotiate a reduction in fees. The reduction was not quite 15 %, but he was able to secure maximum services for $16,500. $16,150 would have been 15 %. Mr. Griset