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Board approves revised district facility plan to pursue renovation options for middle school
Summary
The board approved an updated District Facility Plan that shifts from planning a new middle school to prioritized renovation options; staff described KDE budgeting caps, estimated replacement-value figures and next steps for detailed cost estimates.
The Bath County Board of Education on Feb. 17 approved an updated District Facility Plan (DFP) amendment that changes a prior intent to build a new middle school to a plan focused on renovating existing facilities.
A staff member presenting the DFP told the board the packet shows items italicized and crossed out as required for the administrative record. The revised plan lists building sections that qualify for replacement due to age and includes a “shopping list” of discretionary renovation options. The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) planning estimate listed a $10,000,000 figure for anticipated work in the oldest building section; the presenter cautioned that KDE’s number is a square-foot, insurance-replacement estimate, not a firm local construction estimate.
The presenter said KDE applies a cap when districts propose major work: if a new school is estimated at $25,000,000, KDE’s cap for eligible renovation funding would be 80% of that (about $20,000,000). Items exceeding the KDE threshold are listed as Priority 5 discretionary projects and would require local funds rather than restricted state funds. The presenter advised the board that locally identified program areas and major renovations are eligible but could be limited by KDE funding rules.
Board members discussed prioritization and budgeting. One board member noted the district has a $7,000,000 grant (referenced as the grant amount under consideration) and roughly $18,000,000 in bonding capacity in total, which the presenter clarified includes the $7,000,000 grant and leaves about $11.5 million available from bonding. The presenter and construction manager said staff and the design team are working to produce line-item, realistic cost estimates to compare with KDE’s figures and will bring those options to the March meeting.
On a motion by Eric and second by Carla, the board approved sending the revised DFP to KDE so the state can process the change from a new school to renovation scope. The motion passed by voice vote.
Staff told the board they will provide an itemized breakdown of KDE cost estimates and the staff/designer realistic cost estimates at the March meeting to help the board prioritize which renovation items to include in any BG-1 project application.
