Providence City Council approves $904K contract amendment for Downs Construction's school projects

The Providence Committee on Finance convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to contracts related to ongoing school construction projects and the financing of a historical project. The meeting began with a resolution to amend the contract with Downs Construction, which involved an additional $904,295 to cover reimbursable expenses incurred during the school capital projects. This amendment was necessary due to previous mismanagement of funds and a lack of proper procurement processes during the pandemic.

The discussion highlighted that the city had reimbursed Downs Construction for various soft costs associated with the projects, but the original purchase order had been depleted, necessitating the amendment to ensure proper funding and compliance with city ordinances. The committee members expressed concerns about the timing of the amendment, noting that the issues had surfaced only recently, despite the work being completed years prior.

Key points of discussion included the need for improved transparency and adherence to procurement protocols moving forward. The committee acknowledged that the previous administration's reliance on outdated processes contributed to the current situation, and steps are being taken to rectify these issues. The finance department is now implementing stricter controls to ensure that all future contracts and amendments follow the established procedures.

In addition to the contract amendment, the committee also addressed the financing of the Mile of History project, which involves issuing obligations not to exceed $6,200,000. This project aims to enhance the historical district and is being developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Myel History Association.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of accountability in public spending and the need for robust financial management practices to prevent similar issues in the future. The committee is committed to ensuring that all projects are executed efficiently and transparently, with a focus on delivering quality outcomes for the community.