 |
APPROVED 2/17/00
TOWN OF HULL
Minutes of Building Committee
Monday, January 24, 2000
Architect Interviews
In attendance:
Dr. John Silva Steven Moore
Dr. Kathleen Reynolds Philip Lemnios
Peter Lombardo William Hurst
James Lampke Debbe Bennett
John Lidington
The Committee convened at 9:15am. Committee first reviewed the list of proposed questions to ask during the interviews. Each firm will be asked the same questions. Each member of the committee was assigned a question to ask. Committee again discussed the tight time schedule. Ed specs and preliminary drawings must be to State by 3/1. Each firms' willingness to take on project without receiving payment until after March 27 was discussed. Relationship between quality and design. History of coming in on time and on budget. What construction cost estimates are based on. How company addresses problems that may delay construction and affect costs. Flood plane construction experience.
MEFA, Building inspection Health Department certification will all be necessary.
Architecture Involution: Interview with Architecture Involution (AI3) began at 9:35am. Present were Scott Dunlap, Troy Randall, Jim Jordan and Daren Sawyer.
AI3 specializes in school construction. They formed their organization as an alternative choice to the other larger firms. They have expertise, plus a smaller, focused team. They dedicate a large number of highly qualified team members (hands-on approach). They do not use draftsmen. 99% of their work is in education. The engineering firms they use have the same organizational structure and specialize in public school construction.
They will commit 6 days a week from 7am until 7pm to the design of the project. A high-level person will be available at all times, 24 hours a day.
They spend a lot of time reading educational publications and journals, to ensure they are up to date on all educational design solutions. They will not overlook anything, for the sake of getting the building complete.
They showed a diagram of a kindergarten classroom where they constructed 4 to 5 different zones using different sloped ceilings and walls, each zone structured towards a specific activity. They illustrated the amount of thought they put into designing corridors (e.g. creating a gallery for displaying children
The Project Manager follows the project all the way to completion. They believe it is very important to have a “hands on” approach throughout construction.
They have SBAB experience and are aware of what is required. They are available to begin work on the project immediately.
Q & A began. They were asked about the firm
They were asked about their ability to complete a project of this size. Scott described AI3
AI was asked for clarification of relationship with Kuhn Riddle and about the longevity of the firm. The proposal was produced by both firms but on AI3
AI3 was asked to comment on the projects they have worked on. They recently completed two minor renovations in Brockton. Scott indicated they just completed a feasibility study for Lynnfield and Natick. However the Town of Natick did not approve the project, which allowed AI3 to pursue the Hull project. Scott indicated they do not take on more projects than they can handle. If they are selected for the Hull project, they would not take on another major project during the Design phase. Three buildings would take a substantial number of personnel. Memorial School project would require 5 to 8 people. When they move into construction, the number would be reduced to 2 to 3 full time and the others would be reassigned during construction. Language detailing staffing levels
could be included in a contract.
AI3 was asked about their experience working in flood plane areas. Scott indicated that Hull is a unique area that would require unique attention. They do not have any direct flood plane experience but their site consultants, John Crowe Associates do have extensive experience in the area. They would be glad to provide additional information, if needed. It was noted high school and Memorial would be subject to Conservation Commission approval, while meeting June 1 deadline. AI3 was asked if the June 1 deadline could be met. Scott indicated that Con Comm. approval is not unique to flood plane areas and they do have experience working with them. Topographical information and
certified plot plans would be necessary in order to move forward. It was noted the MDC may have done a survey of high school area while working in Pemberton area. Topos should be done right away and could cost $15-$20 thousand per site. If there are any site related issues, it may be difficult for anyone to meet the June 1 deadline.
Design & construction were discussed. They enhance the quality of education without going over budget. They are able to keep structural layout costs down by using the same size or style material throughout, this allows for more economical efficiency.
AI3 was asked if a payment schedule could be worked out for architectural fees, if the project is staged. Scott indicated that it would be possible, and he has done it in the past. Architectural fees could be phased in as each project comes on board. Contract could include whatever wording the Committee is most comfortable with. He also asked the Committee to consider the potential inflationary impact of phased construction on cost vs. simultaneous construction (although he does not recommend simultaneous construction).
AI3 has the ability to provide estimated operating costs once on line. This is a common request and recently compared his estimates to actuals in Natick, which were consistent.
AI3 was asked what would be needed to get to March 1. Scott indicated the Ed Specs are not a huge set of documents and can be easily produced quickly as long as the town understands changes will occur afterwards (if done in a short period of time).
AI3 was asked to address any unique problems on recent projects and how they were resolved. Scott sited the Bennett Hemenway Elementary School in Natick. There were critical deadlines for completion. A “delayed schedule” was developed. He met with contractor on a regular basis about progression of schedule. If something was off schedule, the sub-contractor had to demonstrate a real effort to put it back on schedule. When asked if AI3 had difficulty finding contractors to agree to the delayed schedule, he indicated that most contractors prefer it, as it gives them leverage over the sub-contractors. If one sub gets behind, it affects all others. No problem getting contractors to bid.
AI3 was asked about ways to vandal-proof buildings. This is something they take into consideration when designing and selecting materials. E.g. plaster or dry wall would not be used in halls, would use concrete block. Tile flooring would be used that is impervious but easy to clean. This is a consideration in every aspect of design from exterior of building to restrooms. The issue of school security was discussed. They have incorporated everything from buzzers at front doors to full exterior monitoring systems, to card readers. This type of equipment is State supported.
AI3 was asked how they would allay fears that they would be out of business in 5 years, given their different business philosophy and the newness of the company. Scott responded that if they put together a list of projects each of the key players had been involved with over the last several years, we would see the extensive history of the group. In addition Kuhn Riddle has been together since 1972 (reorganized in 87-88) and they are prepared to sign a joint contract to alleviate any fears.
Mount Vernon Group: Interview with Mount Vernon Group began at 11:15am. Frank Tedesco, Dennis Daly, Howard Goldstein, Frank Siraco of Anderson-Nichols and Dan Quaile.
Jim Lampke noted for the record, Howard Goldstein
The Committee agreed to hear Mt. Vernon
Frank Tedesco stated his father founded Mt. Vernon in 1956. Their approach is to work closely with Community to be aware of what needs are.
They work primarily on public buildings and have had no judgments or claims against them. They carry more than the maximum allowable.
Howard discussed his experience and his role, which is to oversee the organization of projects. He preserves the relationship with consultants and the integrity of documents. He has experience handling multiple large and complex projects simultaneously. They have a project management manual which is a guideline for each phase of the project. It contains checklists to ensure nothing is missed or overlooked. They would share this with Committee, if wanted.
Their office has the latest technology and the Committee is invited to their office to view the equipment. They are confident they can handle the Hull project. When project moves into construction phase, their job is to help the contractor and serve the owner
Dan Quaile spoke regarding his knowledge of the three school buildings and their ability to move forward. Frank Siraco described his company
Mount Vernon
Committee reconvened at 1:10pm. Mount Vernon was asked about financial stability of the company. Frank indicated they would be able to provide financial statements for the Committee
When asked about the project timeline, they indicated they donThey would be agreeable to moving ahead with project on good faith while awaiting the funding vote in March.
They carry the “old school” commitment to business and have long-term relationships with a group of contractors. This is important when it
When asked about the specific people who would be assigned to the Hull project and their roles, Frank Tedesco would oversee SBA submission. Dennis Daly and Dan Quaile would coordinate design and would remain involved throughout. Howard Goldstein would coordinate entire project and ensure the quality of the documents. He would be available “as needed”.
When asked if they felt the estimates in the needs study will change, they indicated that they are very comfortable with the numbers contained. Inflation factor for the first year was included, but between 4-6% per year for inflation should be projected for any future years.
Frank indicated that Mount Vernon has not had any claims and is unaware of any against their contractors. Their insurance company will verify this fact. He reiterated that anything can happen during construction and the key is to cooperate and solve the problems.
When working with Conservation Commission, they would get together with them to determine their concerns and address them ahead of time. They have 40 years experience understanding the needs of faculty. When asked what changes in education and technology they have seen that would be incorporated in this design. Mt. Vernon uses caution when incorporating innovations into their designs. (E.g. natural lighting is not conducive to working on computers). They are constantly updating their knowledge. They conduct weekly luncheon seminars to keep everyone up to date.
Operational cost projections can be calculated. On the subject of school security, they have found a trend toward “closed” schools with only one entrance during school hours. They recommend discussions with various departments to determine the best solution for Hull. In addition, separate entrances for any community use space can be incorporated, but needs should be identified.
When asked about their experience on projects where things have gone wrong, they responded that all projects have problems. The key is to resolve the problems quickly & efficiently. They have had no major catastrophes. Having an architect on site helps alleviate problems and keeps change orders to a minimum. Also, need to accept the fact that final details will be different than originally planned.
Regarding a Construction Manager, Mt. Vernon indicated this individual should have a “helpful nature” and should be constructive and knowledgeable. However they do not feel there is a great need for one.
Q & A session concluded and Mount Vernon departed the meeting.
Committee discussed the pros and cons of each candidate. Committee would like to review financial statements from each company. 4 areas of concern were identified.
Ability to meet schedule.
Team commitment who will be assigned to the project and how long.
Financial stability of each firm.
Longevity expectations.
The Committee will meet again on Monday, January 31, 2000 at 7:00pm in the Jacobs School Media Center.
| |
