Project Management Fees The Campus Management and Operations committee (CMO) recently approved an increase in the institutionally managed project management fee from the current 3% of Construction Cost to 4% of Total Project Cost. The increased fee will apply to all Work Requests received by the Office of Facilities after April 30, 2010, but will not be charged until September 1, 2010 unless otherwise requested by the customer. This change is necessary to sustain appropriate project management staffing levels to effectively manage the large number of institutionally managed projects being constructed on campus, and will ultimately result in improved project management services. If you have any questions relating to the approved increase in the project management fee, please contact Facilities Work Control at 458-4262. Shop Rates Facilities - New Progress Billing Plan Effective September 1, 2010, Facilities will begin billing customers for reimbursable work in the same month that work is performed. This new method of billing not only eliminates deferred and partial billing but also provides customers with an accurate representation of monthly expenditures as they will no longer have to wait until all work is completed, before being billed. With, Progress Billing, departmental monitoring of costs will be simplified by using the iService Desk (electronic work order system) and monthly Statements of Accounts will more accurately reflect monthly expenses, making it easier to forecast year-end free balances. For additional information contact Facilities Work Control at 458-4262. The purpose of shop rates is to reimburse the Office of Facilities the cost of providing departmental services. Effective September 1, 2011 hourly shop rates are as follows:

For additional information, go to Service Guidelines

What is included in the proposed rate?
The rate includes hourly labor, fringe and supervision. Also, a nominal charge is added for incidental supplies such as nuts, bolts, screws, and nails. We do not charge a markup for any services or supplies billed to our customers.

How does the new rate compare to others?
The proposed hourly rates are substantially lower than equivalent local service providers. Some examples of local service provider rates include but are not limited to:
     · Carpenters $65
     · Electricians $75
     · Auto Shop $60
Our rates are lower than the UT Systems campuses, too.

But, I can pay a local handyman, carpenter, or electrician $10-$15 per hour.  Why are the new rates higher?
Our trades personnel are fully insured (workers compensation and liability) and have fringe benefits. Many are licensed, journeymen, and masters of their respective trade. We obtain required building permits and inspections by regulatory agencies. And, our supervisors ensure that all work is performed in a professional, cost effective, and efficient manner.

How often will these rates change?
The base rate will be reviewed yearly and adjusted automatically for changes to the UTSA merit plan and fringe rate plans. Every two years we will conduct a detailed review to make additional adjustments for changes to the cost of living, and construction cost index. We will notify you of rate changes during the annual budget process.