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Commission allocates $2.25 million in bond funds for McConnell, Hardy school projects and approves design contracts for several school renovations
Summary
Hamilton County commissioners approved up to $2.25 million in bond funds for a McConnell Elementary multipurpose building and a Hardy Elementary playground partnership and authorized contracts for design work on several school renovation projects, using funds from an existing $60 million maintenance bond set‑aside.
Hamilton County commissioners on July 16 approved the use of up to $2,250,000 in bond proceeds to support school projects pending school board approval: construction of a multipurpose building at McConnell Elementary and a playground partnership project at Hardy Elementary, in collaboration with the Trust for Public Land. Commissioners said the funds will come from the $60 million set aside in the county’s bond program for maintenance and capital projects.
The commission also approved design contracts for multiple school projects. Resolutions bundled at the meeting included:
- Resolution 7 25-22: Authorize the county mayor to enter into a contract with Tinkermont LLC for design of the Gateway Career Technical Education Building renovation (not to exceed $1,593,014.37). - Resolution 7 25-23: Authorize contract with MTA Architecture and Planning for design of the (name transcribed as) “Saudi Daisy Bridal School” renovations and additions (not to exceed $1,902,848). - Resolution 7 25-24: Approve HK Architects for the design of Brainerd High School renovations and additions and to use a construction manager at risk procurement process for construction.
Commissioners thanked county staff and the mayor’s office for coordinating the projects. Commissioner Smith said the money will “mean a tremendous amount for a lot of our smaller municipalities” that will benefit from community recreation improvements. Commissioner Sharp asked whether the $2.25 million was being drawn from the $60 million maintenance pot; county staff confirmed it was.
Why it matters: The actions advance architect/engineering design and set aside bond funding that enables school construction and playground projects to move into procurement and building phases, pending local school board approvals and required contracting steps.
Approvals were made on a bundled vote. Commissioners said they plan to continue oversight as designs proceed and to coordinate with school‑board and municipal partners on project specifics and implementation timelines.
