H-M-S board expresses concerns about facilities projects

With the end of June on the horizon, concerns about the timely completion of the new Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Middle School and other facilities projects were voiced during Monday's school board meeting.

Members of the building committee, Board President Scott Heetland and Board Vice President Scott Vollink, expressed frustration with several issues. Some of it was directed toward Boyd Jones, the firm which serves as project manager.

According to Heetland, "Things are not getting done."

"Timelines are not spelled out," Vollink added. "Some things are gaining traction, but quite often we don't feel like we're the customer."

The most immediate issues are related to completion of the new middle school in Sanborn, but ongoing concerns at the elementary and high school buildings also exist.

According to previous discussion, there are issues with HVAC systems at both buildings in Hartley. In addition, delays at the middle school are impacting other projects. Superintendent Patrick Carlin said installation of equipment in the high school gym has been put off until the floor refinishing is completed.

A payment request of nearly $110,000 from Boyd Jones was included in the claims list. Heetland asked if payment should be withheld "until we get satisfaction."

"If we withhold $110,000, will that open somebody's eyes?" asked Board Member Chad Lyman.

Board members decided to pay Boyd Jones' claim this month, but will consider withholding payment in July if the situation does not improve.

"If things don't change, they're not getting paid next month," Heetland said.

The district's concerns will be communicated by Carlin and Boyd Jones personnel on the H-M-S jobsites.

• Change orders, project update

Change orders related to the middle school project address several areas. They include installation of filters in the air handling units to mitigate dust; replacement of an existing curb to match the sidewalk width; a switch from sealed concrete to polished concrete throughout the building; and replacement of existing cabinet unit heaters in the locker rooms due to their poor condition.

An update on the middle school project's progress noted that carpet installation, floor polishing, gym floor finishing and lighting installation are nearing completion.

Refinishing of the high school gym floor is scheduled to begin this week. Additional upgrades include installation of new scoreboards, wall pads and sound system. Carlin said the work is scheduled to be completed by Aug. 1.

• Vendors, contracts

In other business, Dean Foods was the only bidder to provide milk products to the nutrition program and Casey's Bakery was the lone bidder for bread products. The board also reviewed three bids from studios to be the school picture vendor. Bobier Studio was the successful bidder.

Contracts were issued to Lindsey Ramsey as elementary administrative assistant; Kim Spier as high school credit recovery coordinator; Katie Henderson as play advisor; and Jay Eilers as high school boys' assistant track coach.