The Moore County Board of Education voted Monday to amend its contract with SFL+A Architects, extending the firm’s agreement to design a new comprehensive high school as the district pivots from a 2026 bond referendum to a 2028 timeline. Despite the delay, the amendment maintains the original $8.8 million flat fee, which includes all engineering services, and keeps payment contingent on the passage of a future bond.
During the discussion, it was explained that the fee, which represents about 5.6% of projected construction costs, remains below the typical 7% to 8% architectural rate.
The firm previously agreed to prepare estimates, detailed information, and renderings for the bond campaign at no cost to the district, with no payment due unless voters approve the project.
“Any issues arising which raise the cost of the build will not affect or raise the cost of the design services,” notes the official memorandum from the Board of Education. “Should the price of the build go up by the time of build, the fee for architectural services will remain the same.”
Interim Superintendent Jenny Purvis told the board the shift to a 2028 bond required updating the agreement, but did not change the scope of work. She also noted that SFL+A voluntarily agreed to use a different engineering partner after concerns were raised about a former associated firm. The amendment includes language barring the architect and any partners from donating to political committees or advocacy groups supporting the bond.
Board members questioned portions of the contract, including a bonding requirement that staff acknowledged should not have applied to architects. Purvis said the firm will remain involved throughout construction if the bond passes, overseeing weekly site checks to ensure the contractor follows approved plans.
The amendment passed 5–1, with board member David Hensley dissenting.
Abegail Murphy | Assistant Editor
Written by Sandhills Sentinel assistant editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021.
Want Moore news that matters? Please click here to sign up for the free Sandhills Sentinel e-newsletter.
Follow Sandhills Sentinel: Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Threads | Newsletter
