Board Discusses Building 8 – “Night Of Patriots” Postponed

The Jefferson County School Board held a Work Session on Thursday, October 9, 2014 in the Patriot Academy.  The meeting was Called to Order by Chairman Jarnigan. One Board Member, Lowery, was absent. Four items were presented on the Agenda, with the Building 8 project occupying two of the four agenda slots.

Director of Schools Edmonds informed the Board that the plans for the proposed Building 8 project, including both the renovation and restoration, were approved with stipulations from the Fire Marshal. No true figures are in for the project, however it was estimated that the renovation portion of the project (drawn by the Vocational teachers) could cost in the neighborhood of $1.3 million. That number would be in addition to the cost of the restoration, which was previously estimated to be around $1.4 million. The total cost of the renovation and restoration could be in the $2.7 million dollar range. Director Edmonds stressed that the number was simply a rough estimate and more solid figures would be available after contractors have the opportunity to price the scope of work. Edmonds stated that he expects more solid figures at the next meeting.

Director Edmonds questioned if the Board is considering using the current project manager and sub contractors on the Building 8 work. He said that they are only contracted for Roofing and Heating/Air with the current contract and a change order would be necessary to expand their scope of work and responsibility. He stated that the project manager currently has a low rate of 1.9% but he is unsure if that rate would transfer to the new project. Edmonds suggested that the Board consider if they are interested in pursuing a change order or if they prefer to send the project out for bid. Board Member Potts requested that the Lewis Group be present at the next meeting.

The Board was informed that eight teachers would have been in Building 8 this year. JCHS Vice Principal Cagle stated that the CTE class numbers are very healthy and class offerings are constantly being evaluated to address the needs of the students.

JCHS and Rush Strong School have been operating without a gym due to issues with their gym floors. Director Edmonds informed the Board that the JCHS gym floor is not covered by the school’s insurance because the damage was determined to be the fault of the roofing contractors. What insurance recovery is available from the contractor is still unknown. The flooring has been replaced and funds from the Maintenance and Operation budget will cover the expense until insurance funds come in to the finance office. The work on the floor is expected to be completed by the end of October. The roof and gym floor at Rush Strong may not be fully covered by insurance because the damage was due to the age of the roof. Demo work on the replacement project is expected to be completed soon and the flooring is expected to arrive in approximately three weeks. Expectations are that the project will be completed by mid December. Roof Replacement costs of $23,000 will be split with the insurance company and the floor bid is $46,000 with the insurance split still unknown.

Edmonds informed the Board that bleachers at JCHS are close to being disassembled and funds from Maintenance and Operations will cover the bleacher expense. Director of Business Affairs Phagan stated that cash flow can handle the outlay but it will impact the amount left for capitol projects. Board Member Bradley stated that he would like for the purchase of the bleachers to come before the Board for consideration. Discussion regarding the policy for purchases over $10,000 revealed that current policy does not require Board approval. Per instructions of the Board, the Policy Committee will review the purchasing policy.

Due to the renovation of the gym and commons area at Jefferson County High School, JCHS Principal Walker sent a letter to the Director informing him of the postponement of the Night of the Patriots, scheduled for November 6, 2014. He also stated that four basketball games have been moved from home to away games.

A five year plan has been requested for review and discussion by Director Edmonds. The Board will set a date to meet and develop a plan.

The Board was informed that their legal representative has filed for an extension with Travelers Insurance in regard to Building 8, which currently is on limited time. Edmonds stated that a lawsuit has been filed in the local chancery court regarding Building 8 and that he is optimistic regarding the possibility of an extension.

Board Member Potts requested that several items be added to the agenda, including athletic funds at JCHS and Maury Middle School, the contingency fund for JCHS, balance on bonds for the Patriot Academy and information regarding a double approval of funds on hand washing machines. She also requested that the intercom system and baseball lights at JCHS, as well as the Perkins grant and other items be added to the agenda.