(Cushing, Okla.) The Cushing Board of Commissioners met Monday and approved all agenda items – with the exception of one – a change order for a portion of work on the safety center. The Board tabled the resolution that would authorize the execution of a change order with B & B Builders. The change order came under fire from Commissioner Carey Seigle.
“I can’t see us/taxpayers paying for this when it seems to be something between the architect and the contractors,” Seigle said.
City Manager Steve Spears explained that in order to receive validation for warranties on the roof, ridge plates needed to be constructed out of 12 gauge metal as opposed to 16 gauge that was indicated on the plans.
“Someone should have noticed or have mentioned 12 gauge would be needed” Seigle said. “I will vote no, because I don’t think it’s right.”
Spears mentioned there are always going to be “little things” that will warrant a change order and that “this won’t be the last.” He also said so far, only one percent of what’s been accomplished has needed a change order, which in his opinion was “extremely good” for a project of this size.
Commissioner Jim Hogrefe asked what the ramifications of not approving the change order might be, City Attorney Stewart Arthurs said should there be litigation regarding payment, it could cost significantly more than the additional money in the change order. The change order was for the sum of $10,166.83 and aside from the gauge change, it included an addition of bent plats to the tops of some of the roof trusses to eliminate “knife edge” deck bearing conditions and also a modification of the mezzanine catwalk to accommodate duct work.
Spears said initially he had felt the same concern as Seigle when meeting with the building contractors and that he would invite them to speak at the next meeting.
At the end of the discussion, the resolution was tabled after the initial motion died for lack of a second.
Meeting the commission’s approval was the purchase of uniform shirts and pants for the fire department, with the purchases going to the lowest builders. Total cost of 21 long sleeved shirts, 21 short sleeved shirts and 63 pairs of pants – $8469.99
Before the vote, Seigle asked Fire Chief Chris Pixler if the uniforms were “made in China.” Pixler assured him the apparel is all “American made.”
“Good!” Seigle said.
Also approved at Monday’s meeting.
Resolution authorizing and directing the execution of a pipeline right of way and easement grant with DCP Midstream LP
Resolution authorizing execution of an agreement establishing the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group.
A conditional use permit for operating an daycare facility at 1513 South Linwood.
The Board also acknowledged two expiring terms on the Planning Commission as well as two expiring terms and one vacancy of an unexpired term on the Board Adjustment
In the City Manager report, Spears expressed a heart-felt appreciation for everyone who assisted during the recent fires.
“As you are aware, all of the grass fires have taxed our man power, equipment and budget,” he said. “A great effort was made to control these fires by our emergency responders – fire and ambulance, personnel, police personnel, emergency management personnel and city mechanics – along with many other mutual aid fire departments.
“Also, with the help of Donnie Hoover, senior citizen director, the Red Cross, and other citizens who volunteered, we operated a shelter for displaced area citizens at the Senior Citizen Center – including some residents of the Drumright Nursing Home. It was my understanding, we had approximately 100 people in the shelter at one time.
“We had many citizens who dropped water, food and other supplies to support our departments. We also had several local transport companies assist the fire fights by trucking water to the fire lines. I was very proud of the effort and work of all involved and with the tremendous support by our citizens and businesses.”
Spears concluded with a mention of the upcoming picnic during the week of September 10th that is being coordinated by the Cushing Chamber of Commerce. The picnic will honor local fire, police and emergency management personnel.
Mayor Evert Rossiter echoed Spears sentiments saying, “I want to give an ‘Atta Boy’ to our fire, police and emergency management teams,” he said. “I wasn’t in town, but it made me proud to hear how well everyone was taking care of things.”
The Cushing Board of Commissioners scheduled a study session for Monday, Aug. 27th at 7 p.m. to discuss the next step for Fountaine Bleau Apartments.
Regular monthly meetings of the Board of Commissioners are scheduled for the third Monday of each month. Meetings are open to the public.
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