School construction project for energy savings updated
With Schneider Electric being about 60% finished with calculations for Holyoke School District’s investment grade audit, an update on the energy savings construction plan was given at a work session prior to the school board’s May 5 meeting.
Joining the board in a Zoom call were Will Benish and Kathleen Pratt of Schneider Electric.
In the project development update, Benish discussed the IGA development and financing kickoff, as well as a construction update.
Estimated project cost is $1.6 million, with projected 20-year lifecycle savings at $1.85 million. Benish added that the projected annual energy savings is $51,000, while the projected annual operations and maintenance savings is $26,000.
Still waiting for some calculations, Benish said he anticipates that the annual cost to the district will be $10,000-$15,000.
A majority of the projected project costs involve heating, ventilation and air conditioning at the JR/SR high. Another part of the project will be upgrading to LED lights in the buildings and to address outside lighting, as well as indoor.
Budget and Finance Director Ben Rahe pointed out that the district won’t be making any payment on financing until the 2021-22 budget. At that time, the mill levy override kicks in and the long-term lease with First Pioneer National Bank goes away.
Superintendent Kyle Stumpf emphasized that the internal lighting can make a difference in daily learning and the outside lighting is simply not up to par. He noted they’re still putting time and resources into the older elementary school building but in a controlled manner.
Stumpf acknowledged the good working relationship with Schneider Electric, noting they’ve been upfront and honest and extremely helpful with a current short-term AC solution. He sees a potential long-term partnership with Schneider Electric.
Next steps outlined by Benish include selection of a financing partner at the May 19 meeting; final IGA report presentation by May 26; review and approval of final project, financial piece and contract at June 2 meeting; and board approval of construction June 16.
Budget priorities reviewed
Rahe reported that the school district’s preliminary budget for 2020-21 will be built using a student count of 605. This compares to 608.5 used for the current year, and Rahe believes it will be a safe number.
Within the budget parameters, Rahe noted that the district will continue with capital projects identified in the district master facility plan.
This will include specific focus on an energy performance contract based on the investment grade audit to be completed in June and the Building Excellent Schools Today grant application that was submitted in February.
Teacher contracts renewed
Teacher contracts for 2020-21 were renewed at last week’s meeting.
Four probationary teachers were moved to nonprobationary status. They are Jimmy French, Jade Goldenstein, Hannah Krening and Kathleen Kropp.
Probationary teachers who were approved for 2020-21 include Allie Balog, Sarah Bergner, Aaron Cottam, Amy Duvall, Ashley Gales, Clark Ginapp, Danyell Jablonski, Tancy King, Charlee Kleve, Cecilia Marquez, David Mauler, Desiree Mosenteen, Tina Rana, Stephanie Rau and Kody Timm.
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