The Solana Beach City Council approved a resolution June 24 to award a construction contract for fire station interior improvements with Real Estate Consulting & Services for a base amount of $165,000.
“An inspection of the Fire Station identified several areas requiring renovation due to age, wear, and ongoing maintenance,” according to a council agenda report. “Planned improvements include upgrades to the living room, Emergency Operations Center, dormitory rooms, and office spaces, along with full carpet replacement on both floors. The existing built-in cabinetry, closet storage, and entertainment center furnishings have reached the end of their useful service life and are in need of replacement to maintain a functional and professional working environment.”
The city began asking for bids in March and, in addition to Real Estate Consulting & Services, received a bid from GQ Builders for $399,000.
“City Staff conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the submitted bids and supporting materials, including contractor qualifications, relevant experience, responsiveness to the bid requirements, and overall project costs,” according to the agenda report. “Real Estate Consulting & Services, Inc. submitted a responsive bid with significantly lower pricing, approximately half the cost of the bid submitted by GQ Builders, Inc. In addition, Real Estate Consulting & Services has previously performed similar services for the City, including handyman and facility improvement services, and has demonstrated the ability to complete projects in a reliable and satisfactory manner.”
In addition to the approximately $165,000 base amount, there is a $22,253 contingency for “any unforeseen conditions or additional work that may arise during construction.”
The city is funding the contract with a previously budgeted $140,000 for fire station improvements, in addition to $47,000 from the facilities replacement fund.
The contract is part of the city’s 2025-26 budget, but construction is expected to begin during the 2026-27 fiscal year.