Judge Halts School Construction Award to MAPP

By Dave Freneaux

On Tuesday, August 10th, Judge Kay Bates granted The Lemoine Company an Injunction effectively preventing the Central Community School Board from proceeding to have the aparent low bidder, Mapp Construction, begin construction on Central's new schools.  The Lemoine Company, who was the second lowest bidder, approximately $50,000 higher than Mapp on the $30 million project, took the issue to court contending that the individual who made a last minute scratch-out and rewrite of the bid amount was not a duly authorized representative of Mapp Construction.  The judge found in favor of The Lemoine Company.
 
The Central Community School Board is scheduled to meet in executive session on Thursday, August 12th, to discuss their options.  Superintendent Faulk comments that no action can be taken until the judge has signed the Judgment Orders, which could take a number of days.  At that point, the Schol Board will be faced with the decision of whether to appeal the decision, which would delay construction, or to award the bid to The Lemoine Company.
 
Michael Polito of Mapp Construction was reached for comment and stated that Mapp would be appealing the ruling and feels that they will prevail in apeals court.  Mr. Polito further adds that he intends to work as quickly as possible to resolve this matter, recognizing that delays can cause Central Schools financial hardship.  Mr Polito also shared that, "I absolutely regret that the Central School System has had to be a part of this and I apologize on behalf of the industry."