Governor Brown Signs Senator Dodd’s Public Works Bill

SACRAMENTO – A bill from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, that improves counties’ ability to plan and deliver infrastructure projects was signed into law Monday by Gov. Jerry Brown. “It will ensure more timely completion at a higher quality, sparing the public any cost overruns,” Senator Dodd said. This is a common-sense measure that grants counties the flexibility they need to build projects in the most efficient manner possible, translating into savings for local government and taxpayers alike.” Senate Bill 914 adds language to the Local Agency Public Construction Act, which governs the awarding of public works projects. It expands authority to use the construction manager at-risk process, requiring the construction manager to deliver projects within the agreed upon price, resulting in better designed and more cost-effective projects. The bill cleared both houses unanimously with a final vote in the Senate on July 2. It was supported by the California State Association of Counties and numerous construction trade groups. “We appreciate Senator Dodd’s efforts and Governor Brown signing this legislation,” said Brad Wagenknecht, chairman of the Napa County Board of Supervisors. “SB 914 will allow flexibility for (the board) to approve contracts for infrastructure related projects and ensure that the county receives a high quality construction product while managing the expense and the use of tax payer dollars.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents California’s 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Sonoma, Solano, Yolo, Sacramento, and Contra Costa counties. You can learn more about Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.