There's no facility user. Koff became a leading Belmont critic while trying to unionize workers at the New Otani Hotel. One popular architect Vasquez, whose firm was involved in the initial RFQ evaluation, was later listed as project architect for two of the finalists, including the eventual winner, Temple Beaudry Partners. Koff calls Vasquez's involvement a clear conflict of interest. A September 1999 report from the district's special investigative unit, headed by Inspector General Don Mullinax, stopped short of that conclusion.
Many observers say that the contract helped undermine the project.
The contract contains other loopholes, critics say, including one providing for an increase to the school price if the retail component fell through. Rather than incorporating environmental costs into the guaranteed maximum price, the contract put those risks on the district. This provision made cost increases more likely, the Mullinax report found. The district's plan to bypass typical competitive bidding procedures also raised eyebrows. Before state funds are approved, current state law requires the state architect's office to approve complete plans and specifications.