The South Padre Island City Council approved hiring Broadus to act as a liaison consultant and provide third-party cost estimating for the convention center annex project, authorizing a budget amendment of up to $47,100 from the venue tax fund.

Staff told the council Broadus had previously served as the project's consultant and project manager when the expansion work began in 2012. With the recent resignation of a city convention-center staffer identified in the meeting only as Blake, staff said the city lacks an on-site project manager and needs an external consultant to review cost estimates provided by the construction manager-at-risk and the architect.

Staff said Broadus has an existing relationship with Cameron County and can coordinate with the county on the annex work. The contract also includes third-party cost estimating to help the city validate construction costs.

Council approved the consultant arrangement and the budget amendment by voice vote. Staff indicated prior discussions with Broadus and recommended the engagement so the project can continue while staff recruitment or assignment is resolved.