A central topic of the meeting was the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) contract amendment, which brought attention to a $10 million reduction in the overall project budget. This adjustment placed the current budget approximately $715,800 under the original allocation. Clarifications were sought on the estimated costs, highlighting a successful bid from Beacon Waterproofing that came in at $658,807, which was lower than the initial estimate of $810,962. The council approved Consigli’s contract amendment number six, valued at $74,858, with the understanding that this was an essential step in keeping the project on schedule. This amendment was part of a broader discussion on how these financial decisions fit into the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) guidelines.

The council also examined the importance of contingencies in the project’s budget. Joe, an experienced volunteer in construction management, led a discussion on the necessity and function of contingencies. He emphasized that these are not merely reserve funds but vital components for managing unanticipated expenses such as unforeseen site conditions, market fluctuations, and regulatory challenges. Joe informed the council that the project comprises several types of contingencies, notably owner contingencies for soft and hard costs, and a construction manager contingency. He noted that some contingency funds, including $600,000 already allocated for soft costs, had been utilized. Joe stressed the need for careful monitoring of these funds to ensure project integrity and avoid unnecessary delays.

Further analysis was provided on the tracking of contingencies, a critical aspect of maintaining the project’s financial health. The council discussed how contingencies are tracked through comprehensive logs, which provide transparency and allow for a real-time view of the project’s financial status. The speaker noted that monitoring these expenses is crucial, particularly if a portion of contingencies is used while the project is still underway.

The meeting also included a discussion about change orders, which are modifications made to a project as it progresses. These can result from technical coordination issues or aesthetic enhancements. The council was advised on the role of third-party inspectors in identifying conditions that might necessitate change orders. It was agreed that further discussions on these orders would occur at the next meeting, allowing council members adequate time to review materials presented.

The design update for the project focused on signage and graphics, with significant collaboration between the Perkins Eastman design team and community stakeholders. The council discussed incorporating murals into the project that reflect community values and history, with input from local students. This initiative aimed to ensure that the school’s design would resonate with local heritage and pride. A proposal to form a decision-making committee, including students, staff, and representatives from the Revere Historical Society, was discussed. The committee would ensure community voices are included in decisions regarding the artistic elements of the project.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the project’s construction value at $412 million, an approved budget with aspirations to exceed it by an additional $10 million. The possibility of future council meetings being held in the new building was briefly mentioned, though recognized as a long-term plan.