MLSD settles with Absher Construction on Vanguard project
NANCE BESTON | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 5 months, 3 weeks AGO
The Moses Lake School District has reached a settlement with Absher Construction regarding the Vanguard Academy project. MLSD is still engaged in ongoing litigation regarding other construction projects, specifically involving Groff Elementary and Fowler General Construction.
FILE PHOTO
MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has reached a conclusive settlement agreement with Absher Construction Company, effectively closing out all remaining contractual obligations related to the construction of Vanguard Academy. This resolution was officially accepted by the MLSD Board of Directors during their regular meeting Thursday.
Under the terms of the settlement, the final contract sum amounts to $47.77 million, exclusive of Washington State sales tax. Additionally, the agreement establishes new contractual milestones for project completion, with substantial completion set for Sept. 25 and final completion designated for Oct. 22. The parties confirmed that these milestones have been verified as currently met.
“This agreement represents a balanced and responsible resolution that allows the district to move forward with confidence,” said Superintendent Carol Lewis. “Our goal has always been to protect the interests of our taxpayers, ensure the long-term integrity of our facilities, and bring this project to a strong and transparent conclusion.”
While this agreement resolves the Vanguard Academy project, MLSD is still engaged in ongoing litigation regarding other construction projects, specifically involving Groff Elementary and Fowler General Construction. The Groff situation is a separate issue from that associated with Absher and Vanguard.
The Absher settlement terminates several disputes between the district and Absher regarding claims for payment and project delays. This resolution comes after a mediation process facilitated by Chris Soelling, aimed at avoiding the uncertainties and expenses associated with litigation.
Absher and the School District initially entered into a contract for the Vanguard Academy Project in April 2021. Following some contentious exchanges — including claims for payment from Absher regarding outstanding change orders — the two parties decided to seek an amicable settlement.
Regarding future obligations, the agreement notes that Absher will be released from any remaining “punchlist” duties connected to the project, and all pending change orders will be deemed null and void. The School District will work promptly toward granting Final Acceptance once Absher provides the required statutory documents.
The success of this settlement reinforces MLSD’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility to its community.
"The district further emphasized that the agreement reflects a collaborative resolution," the MLSD press release stated.
ARTICLES BY NANCE BESTON
‘Show up’
Local leaders say community voices shape schools, cities and trust
WARDEN — When Warden Mayor Rosaelia Martinez looked out over the audience at the April 28 Warden City Council meeting, she didn’t see empty seats. She saw neighbors. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.” That message – that showing up matters – was echoed by city and school leaders across the Columbia Basin, many of whom say public participation directly shapes decision-making, transparency and long‑term planning.
Warden council bans kratom, considers parking regulations
WARDEN — Warden City Council passed a kratom ban and special event permit Tuesday night. It also discussed its comprehensive plan update and an ordinance for parking regulations. Around 17 residents were in attendance, a fairly large showing for a Warden council meeting. “First of all, before we start, I want to say thank you to all those that came to the meeting tonight,” Mayor Rosaelia Martinez said. “I know we are all busy people, and I really appreciate your input because it really validates what a lot of people are hoping to achieve in the city. Thank you. Your time is valuable and we appreciate you being here.”
Columbia Basin Hospital nominates Allred for board
EPHRATA — The Columbia Basin Hospital received one application for a vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners for Public Hospital District No. 3. Dr. Lowell Allred has applied for the role. He was officially nominated for the role at the April 28 board of commissioners meeting. “Public notice of this nomination shall occur between April 29 and May 14, to allow time for registered voters residing in the hospital district to also submit nominees for the vacant position,” said Chief Executive Officer Rosalinda Kibby.