Board approves Comanche acoustical panels and three new dishwashers funded from nutrition budget

The USD 443 Board of Education on Monday approved two facilities purchases brought to the board during new business.

The first approval covered acoustical paneling for the band and orchestra rooms at Comanche Middle School. The superintendent described the two panels as completing prior work in other music rooms and presented a combined price of $36,697. "I'll make a motion for approval," said a board member; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

The second approval authorized purchase of three commercial dishwashers — one each for the Bridal Beginning program, Sunnyside and Dodge City High School — at a combined cost of $75,623.55. The superintendent said the district will charge the purchases to the nutrition budget because that fund has accumulated a higher balance than allowed by federal rules and must be spent down before the fiscal year ends. The superintendent explained the balance rose after COVID‑era decisions and higher reimbursement rates during years where meals were free. "I'd make a motion we accept the bids on the dishwashers at the 3 schools," said a board member; a motion and second were recorded and the board approved the purchase by voice vote.

Why it matters: District leaders said the nutrition fund balance must be reduced to comply with federal limits on allowable fund balances; paying for equipment from that fund reduces pressure on capital outlay accounts.

Votes: Both items were approved on voice votes with motions and seconds recorded in the meeting minutes. No roll‑call tallies were provided in the meeting transcript.