Board updated on new PES

By Staff, 10/21/20 8:50 AM

PRESCOTT – Prescott’s School Board was given a bottom line figure on what the new Prescott Elementary School will cost at its October meeting Tuesday night.

Representatives from C. R. Crawford were on hand, with Trent Rogers making the presentation. He said the new building will cost $9,479,256, pointing out this is what the building will cost, and  this figure doesn’t include the demolition of the current PES, parking lots or asphalt, which will run roughly $1.8 million.

Rogers told the board 80 subcontractors submitted bids for the project and the firm has been working to qualify the bids to make sure these contractors have what they claim to have and are qualified to do the job. He said the firm has also been looking at ways to save the Prescott School District some money, but the primary focus is on safety and security.

According to Rogers, the budget includes a contingency fund of $339,000 that can be used for other needs if it’s not required for the construction project.

Superintendent Robert Poole pointed out the building costs are what was projected, but the asphalt and paving was over budget. He added the district has 11.3 million for the overall project and the district is roughly two years away from getting into the building.

Poole also told the board he’s been working on a project for the pre-school that involves a grant. A pre-school wasn’t included in the plans for the new PES.

Rogers said Crawford’s didn’t want to sacrifice the look or design of the building and has been selective in what it’s picked. “The building will be safe and attractive,” he said, “and we’re turning over every stone looking for savings. We’re doing our due diligence right now.”

The board approved plans for the new facility.

In other business, the panel approved Act 1120, as required by law. This involves employees who earn 5 percent or above their contract salaries.

JoBeth Glass was approved as the disbursing officer and can sign electronic signatures with the superintendents approval.

The board also approved a resolution to allow the district to do business with KoFields. This was required as Reed Koger is on the board and is part owner of the business. It avoids conflict of interest.

Student population increased by seven students from September to October and is now at 944. PES had 354 students, with Prescott Junior High and Prescott High School with 295 each.

Poole told  the board about 25 percent of the district’s students have opted for virtual learning in K-12.