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Board discusses HVAC, windows, TVA grant and state energy loan; approves HVAC service contract and a CTE addition with state approval hold
Summary
Facilities staff described aging HVAC units, a window bid process and the Tennessee Energy Efficient Schools Initiative while the board approved a one‑year HVAC service contract and conditioned approval of a CTE shop‑bay addition on state budget approval.
Facilities staff briefed the board on building systems and energy‑savings options and the board approved related operating and capital items.
HVAC service contract and discussion: The board approved a one‑year HVAC service contract with Streets HVAC Service for $203,520. Staff noted the contractor has served the district since about 2017–2018 and the agreement includes a labor rate of $135/hour for work on kitchen coolers and freezers. Staff provided service‑call statistics (231 service calls in the prior contract period; 69 at the high school) and noted the average age of district heat pumps is about 21.4 years. Board members discussed developing a local training pipeline (partnership with TCAT) so the district can “grow its own” HVAC technicians for routine work such as filter changes and basic service.
Windows, TVA and energy program: Staff said the invitation to bid for window replacement had drawn contractor interest; a pre‑bid meeting and end‑of‑month bid deadline were planned. Staff recommended addressing lighting before large HVAC replacements to maximize measurable energy savings. The district discussed the Tennessee Energy Efficient Schools Initiative (state ESI) — a low‑interest loan program (staff cited about 1.5% current interest and up to $5,000,000 maximum) that includes technical review and a guarantee that projected energy savings will cover loan payments. Staff said they could invite the program director (Scott Slusher) or present the program in a work session; several board members favored pursuing the state program rather than a private energy‑savings vendor.
CTE shop bay addition: The board approved a CTE shop bay addition with Construction Partners LLC for $422,000 using ISM grant funds. Staff explained the project will require bringing the building up to code (sprinkler and fire alarm upgrades) and that the district cannot authorize contractors to begin work until state budget approval is in place — staff estimated that could take 30–45 days.
Ending Staff will continue energy audits, pursue bids for windows, explore the state ESI loan option and coordinate with the county and state before issuing notices to proceed on capital projects.
