Deming Public Schools on Thursday updated the board on construction projects, federal permitting delays for district solar installations and a proposed list of items for a planned November bond election — including replacement of the district’s central cafeteria.

District staff presented a project list that included completed work, active projects and planned items. Active items listed included security card access and camera replacements, district‑wide lighting occupancy pilots, a radio‑system upgrade to digital, shade canopies and a planned move of a portable classroom to the Early College site. Administrators said life‑safety and the facilities master plan guide prioritization.

On solar, staff told the board that some private financiers are ready to proceed but that other projects remain stalled in technical review with the local utility and federal reviews involving supply‑chain rules tied to foreign‑origin components. An administrative update said some vendors have projects “in technical review” and that, once a project moves to approved status, the district will request vendor timelines; staff cautioned that prior delays nationwide had been caused by evolving federal guidance and utility reviews.

The district also previewed a November bond proposal the board is considering. The flyer draft circulated to the board focuses on maintenance and safety projects — roofs, HVAC, ADA access, technology, bleachers, shade structures and a central cafeteria replacement. The superintendent noted the facilities master plan lists “replace” for the central cafeteria and said the district will couple any replacement planning with discussion of future uses for the site. Administrators cautioned that unexpected capital needs (failed HVAC, emergency repairs) could reduce funds available for discretionary projects.

Board members asked staff to gather vendor timelines for solar approvals once individual sites clear technical review, and to continue refining the bond flyer and project cost estimates before public outreach.