Texas Local Government Code - LOC GOV'T § 351.137. Construction Contracts

(a) The district may contract with any person to construct or improve any part of a jail facility.

(b) Construction contracts requiring an expenditure of more than $50,000 may be made only after competitive bidding as provided by Subchapter B, Chapter 271.

(c) After a construction contract is awarded, if the district determines that additional work is needed or if the character or type of work, facilities, or improvements should be changed, the board may authorize change orders to the contract on terms the board approves. The board may grant authority to an official or employee responsible for purchasing or for administering a contract to approve a change order that involves an increase or decrease of $50,000 or less. A change made under this subsection may not increase or decrease the total cost of the contract by more than 25 percent.

(d) A construction contract must contain or have attached to it the specifications, plans, and details for work included in the contract, and work shall be done according to those plans and specifications under the supervision of the district.

(e) A construction contract must be in writing and signed by an authorized representative of the district and the contractor.

(f) The contract is a record of the district and is subject to Sections 351.133(c) and (d).