Board: Further Study Needed on Shop
The GDCISD Board at its meeting Dec. 13 decided to take more time to study the options for a vocational facility. Possibilities include converting the existing bus barn, upgrading the present shop, constructing a new building or leaving things as they are. Board member Tibby Niehues said most people she has heard from favor converting existing buildings. Niehues and board members Doug Schafer and Andy Wheeler said no one from the community has spoken to them in favor of a new building. Board member Carl Hoelscher said two called him to say something needs to be done, and some support building something smaller than originally planned.
Vocational teacher Rusty Hollingsworth suggested that “value engineering” might be helpful. He said that concept consists of telling engineers the components you need and letting them design a facility for the lowest cost.
The board agreed that more information is needed, and they will discuss the matter again at the Jan. 10 board meeting.
Superintendent Steve Long reported that a roof leak in the Complex needs to be repaired before further consideration of a portable hardwood floor for that building.
Problems with the stage lighting in the Ruth Cook Auditorium were discussed again. The board was told that the lighting is not adequate for hosting UIL One-act Play competition. Replacing the entire lighting system would apparently cost more than $35,000 including labor, so options for repairing the existing system will be explored further.
Board member Tibby Niehues seemed to summarize board’s feelings when she said that the school needs to stay smart on spending, since no one knows where school finance at the state level is heading.
The board decided to buy a 2004 Suburban from Robert Hall Chevrolet in Jayton for $27,260. Wheeler Motor’s bid was for $29,122. While the original plan was to buy two Suburbans, the board decided to buy one now and see how it works out before getting another one. If they are satisfactory, these vehicles would ultimately replace school vans.
In other action, the board, with Carl Hoelscher abstaining, appointed Wilburn Bednar, Dennis Fuchs and Eugene Hirt as its representatives on the county appraisal board.