Board approves $501K track renovation at Francis Howell High School

The Francis Howell School District (FHSD) Board of Education convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss several key action items and financial updates. The meeting began with the approval of the consent agenda, followed by a series of motions that passed unanimously.

One significant item was the approval of a $501,000 contract with Byrne and Jones for the replacement of the rubberized track surface at Francis Howell High School. Board members discussed the lifespan of the new track, which is expected to last between 25 to 30 years. Concerns were raised about the current track's condition, which has undergone multiple resprays since its original installation in 1998. The board emphasized the need for a complete replacement to ensure safety and performance, as further repairs would compromise the track's integrity.

Additionally, the board reviewed the finance and operations report, which highlighted the district's current financial status. The anticipated fund balance is projected at 30.23% for June 30, 2025, although this figure may fluctuate based on revenue and expenditure changes. The report noted that the district has over $4 million in uncommitted bond funds, which will be allocated for future projects. However, concerns were raised regarding the ongoing hazardous odor issue at Princess Hall North, with assurances that investigations and contracts are in place to address the problem.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of upcoming budget discussions, with a detailed review scheduled for the May 15 meeting. The board is actively working on budget development and will provide further insights in the coming months. Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to maintaining district facilities and ensuring financial transparency.