AUSTIN CO. COMMISSIONERS HOLD OFF ON HIRING PROJECT MANAGER FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION
Austin County Commissioners have not yet decided on employing a project manager for new facility construction.
Commissioners met last week to continue talks on the county’s plans for a new justice center, jail and EMS station. The court voted to not hire a project manager at this time, but did not rule out the possibility of bringing one in in the future once it had more detailed plans.
The county has hired Burns Architect as the builder for the project, along with Gaeke Construction as the construction manager. Austin County Sheriff Jack Brandes has previously recommended that Architect Kenny Burns be the project manager.
Burns has said his firm could handle the responsibilities of a project manager, like utilities and engineering. He noted at the meeting that by hiring a project manager, funds would need to be taken from the building’s budget.
Burns said a local person that has a background in architecture, construction or engineering could potentially serve as a consultant. He also said a committee looking over the project could work, if a county commissioner serves on it.
Two project management firms, ECM International and AG/CM, have submitted proposals for the project.
County Judge Tim Lapham said the county has worked with the City of Sealy for a possible land swap or purchase, in order to build an EMS station. He acknowledged that there are at least two other properties in play. He said the city plans to have an offer regarding the price of that property by January 7th. Any other property proposals need to be submitted by the 10th.
In November 2018, a $17 million bond election was approved, which will fund the construction of the justice center. The county intends to finance new construction for the jail and EMS station for roughly $9.5 million.
Commissioners have stated design work for these facilities will likely start in February, with about a year before actual construction starts.