Courthouse Renovation Project Funding Shortfall Calls for Additional Budget Increase

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The historic courthouse renovation project again needs approval from the Supervisors to increase contingency funds.

As the project approaches completion, it faces a shortfall in funding attributed to escalating construction costs and material expenses.
Unforeseen changes have necessitated a budget increase of $250,000 to address additional costs.

One being the consolidation of the Auditor-Controller office and Treasurer Tax Collector role earlier this year, prompted by a lack of candidates. Consequently, the original renovation plans, which allocated space for these two offices, now require a reconfiguration.
In addition to these challenges, the need for adjustments to accommodate windows has contributed to the depletion of the contingency fund embedded in the original contract. With potential change orders on the horizon, the budget has reached its limit, posing a hindrance to the successful completion of the project.

The Department of Public Works acknowledges In terms of value, a substantial portion of the work has been completed, and the project has dealt with and resolved a significant number of unexpected or unknown conditions that arose during the renovation process, indicating a level of stability and control in managing the project, suggesting that future phases may be more predictable, although challenges may still arise.

The supervisors will also look to approve furniture expenditures as populating the courthouse nears.

The board will make these considerations tomorrow, November 14th, during a regular meeting at 9 am in the supervisor’s Chambers on Nevada Street in Susanville.