Title
Rehab Bids for the Model Block Project (NB)
Explanation
The next step in the Model Block project is the rehab of four historic houses in the Pleasant Street neighborhood. Jay Reeves and Associates have prepared construction documents for these projects. Purchasing has bid the project twice with no bidders responding either time. Because the four houses combined will have a construction value of over $250,000, Florida State Statutes require performance bonds for the project. Since rehab work is very specialized and those companies who usually perform this type of work are small, these required measures discouraged bidders from bidding.
It appears unlikely that re-bidding a third time with the same requirements will yield a successful bidder. It is recommended that the CRA direct staff to work closely with the CRA Attorney and the Purchasing Department to negotiate with appropriate potential contractors.
Fiscal Note
Funding for this work in covered the Fifth Avenue Pleasant Street Model Block account and through the $300,000 Line of Credit with the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Recommendation
Interim Executive Director to the CRA: Authorize staff to work closely with the CRA Attorney and the Purchasing Department to negotiate with appropriate potential contractors to get the four historic Model Block houses rehabbed.