Discuss, consider and take appropriate action on a Construction Agreement between Williamson County and Chasco Constructors, Ltd. L.L.P. for the Williamson County LE Drop Center Project Phase II Renovations; exempting the procurement of such services from the competitive bidding requirements pursuant to Texas Local Government Code Discretionary Exemption 262.024(a)(2) [an item necessary to preserve the health and safety of the residents of Williamson County] and authorize the County Judge to execute the Agreement.

The original not-to-exceed contract for this project was approved by the Commissioner’s Court on 9.14.2021, item #75, in the amount of $1.1 million which was a design-build estimate because time was of the essence.  Of that, $950,000.00 has been spent on the project.  As to not surpass the 25% Change Order requirement, a new contract is being recommended to complete the project for $264,867.00 with an additional scope of work.

As a direct result of the COVID-19 Pandemic hardships on social structures in our community, an increased and immediate need arose to create capacity for those individuals that may be facing mental health issues.

To address this capacity need, the Williamson County Law Enforcement Drop Center building was scheduled for renovation to accommodate a new program and partnership between the County and Bluebonnet Trails Community Services.  The renovation will create space to accommodate individuals as they are being diagnosed for potential mental health issues that may need further evaluation or treatment. They will be relocated from this facility within 24 hours as it is not considered to be a long-term facility but more of a ‘drop-center’ for short term evaluation and stabilization of clients experiencing crisis.  Without this facility renovation these program recipients may spend this evaluation time in a jail setting where that level of security is not warranted and not appropriate.

The building renovations will include creating a more open floor plan, upgrades to the kitchen area to support mealtimes, upgrades to plumbing and restroom facilities and upgrades and replacement of the fire alarm system which is outdated and not dependable. There will also be some changes made to create a proper intake area for the reception of clients. This area and others will need to be brought up to current ADA standards as well.

The remainder of the building that is not being used by the Bluebonnet clientele will become office space for the Sheriff’s Office Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program. Some remodeling and FF&E will be required to support the CIT program in the current building.

The above-mentioned exemption is being requested to establish this facility for the health and safety of the individuals supported by the Bluebonnet program. The amount is $264,867.00. The funding source is ARPA and the department point of contact is Dale Butler.