Greeley‑Evans District 6 reviews replacement of 70‑year‑old administration building amid downtown redevelopment offer

Greeley‑Evans School District 6 board members heard a facility conditions audit on the district administration building and extensive cost and financing estimates during a work session. Assistant Superintendent of Support Services Kent Henson and HCM Architects lead Lisa Gardner presented the results, and staff described a possible partnership with a downtown development project that would allow the district to build a new office without buying land.

The audit found the administration building is about 70 years old, has an FCI (facility condition index) of approximately 0.64 — above typical replacement thresholds — and contains aging mechanical systems, single‑pane windows, asbestos‑containing materials and partial fire suppression. Kent Henson said, “The replacement value, of this building, kinda came out to a number of 36,000,000.” Henson and the district’s consultant noted that a straight replacement estimate differs from a full project cost once abatement, demolition, parking and professional fees are included.

Why it matters: the district would face substantial up‑front costs, potential multi‑year relocation and ongoing annual debt service if it chooses to replace the building. Staff described certificates of participation (COPs) as the likely financing vehicle and estimated an annual COP payment on the order of $3 million. Dr. Pilch said the building “is in really poor condition and is getting harder and harder to repair.” Board members repeatedly raised flood risk, energy…