Centre board seeks bids on remodeling project
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
At a special meeting Monday of Centre USD 397 Board of Education, architects Brent Bowman and Mike Carson presented updated preliminary construction costs for remodeling several high school classrooms.
Science instructor Chad Tischhauser was on hand to reiterate the need for a larger science lab and more space for science instruction.
He noted the current lab is too small to accommodate the number of students taking science classes.
After a thorough and lengthy debate and a determination of available funds, the board authorized the architectural firm to proceed with bids.
The project was presented in three parts: 1) remodeling of former home economics room into a science classroom and lab, 2) remodeling the current science room into one large classroom, and 3) remodeling the current lab into a classroom.
Estimated costs are: $131,286 for part one, $39,971 for part two, and $35,603 for part three, for a total of $206,860.
The project retains a kitchen area for school-related activities.
Before approving bid-letting, the board passed a motion to republish the capital outlay budget at $300,000. It was originally set at $230,000.
The new limit will allow for financing the remodeling project while leaving an appropriate balance in capital outlay for other possible needs that may arise.
The board reserves the right to reject any and all bids if they come in too high.
Other costs associated with the project, such as architect fees, printing of plans, and equipment will be paid out of the general fund if the project is approved.
It is hoped bids can be received and the project approved in time for the work to be done this summer.
