The elementary school has had several issues with heat and the boiler not cooperating, so it was no surprise that a new HVAC system was in the capital expenditure list.
What was a surprise, though, was the price tag.
The district received two proposals, both of which exceeded the budget from the district architect when the district sold the working cash bonds. One was from Bear Construction for a total of $6,162,573, which could be paid with bonds of $5,085,000 but then, even with PJHS paving project savings of $167,665 and bond interest of $469,879, would still be underfunded by $440,029.
The Midwest Mechanical proposal was for a displacement induction system that includes a traditional boiler and chiller, with five dedicated outside air systems. This system is expected to be quieter, easier to maintain, last longer, and costs less than the BEAR Construction bid. The Midwest Mechanical bid is $5,722,544 and would be paid with working cash bond proceeds of $5,085,000; the rest would still be paid with the PJHS paving project savings and the working cash bond interest.
Board member Tim Stoub inquired about the maintenance and Building and Grounds Director Mike Singletary said if there was little maintenance involved. Stoub also inquired about air change, and Singletary said most of the air change would be from the outside, and the duct work was smaller.
Stoub also inquired if there was any capital expense that would be delayed by appropriating the necessary funding to the project, and Singletary replied there was no project more pressing than the PES HVAC systems.
The bid for $5,722,544 to Midwest Mechanical was unanimously approved, and the work is expected to be completed by the end of summer for next school year.
In other board news, a proposal from TECTACARE, for inspection and maintenance of the roofs at all schools provided by Anthony Roofing unanimously was approved. The agreement provides roof inspection in accordance with the warranty, general upkeep, maintenance, and an annual/semi-annual report for $15,750 for an annual or semi-annual inspection. The price increases to $16,200 for 2026 and $16,650 for 2027.
The board policy allowing non-public school student participation, which was not released at the last board meeting, was amended unanimously. The amended provision states that any non-public student may attend or participate in extracurriculars if they meet the district requirements for attendance, code of conduct, and other specified requirements. Selah Turner asked during public comment what she needed to participate, and Superintendent Brandon Owens said he would share those specific requirements with her.
A district cardiac emergency plan also unanimously was approved.
Good News
In the Good News bit at the board meeting, high school junior Jordan Kamide was awarded the December Student of the Month. Junior high students CJ Brenzek (sixth), Noah Estrada (seventh), and Charley Isbell (eighth) also were awarded December students of the month.
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