Mayor to recommend boilers and elevators for bonding; Wallingford schools plan summer capital work

District and municipal leaders told the board that the town administration intends to recommend bonding for several facilities projects under the district's multi-phase capital plan.

Superintendent updates said the mayor was likely to bring a recommendation at a November town meeting for boilers at four schools: DAG Hammerschaud Middle School, James H. Moran Middle School, Highland Elementary School and Rock Hill Elementary School. The administration also indicated it will recommend funding to replace three elevators: one at Mark Tschie High School and two at DAG Hammerschaud Middle School.

District operations staff said the work is part of a previously submitted, phased plan. Two earlier phases of boiler replacements were completed; the items noted for bonding are phase three. Facilities staff said some older boilers are increasingly difficult to maintain because replacement parts are scarce, and replacements are the practical option to avoid future system failures.

Officials noted that the projects would likely be scheduled for summer construction windows where major mechanical and elevator work can be completed without interrupting school operations. Details on scope, firm estimates and schedules were not finalized at the Oct. 27 meeting; the board was told those details will be presented if and when the town's bonding recommendation advances.

Board members and staff said they welcome the possibility of town support for the work; the mayor and district staff indicated additional outreach and planning steps will follow before any bond referendum or council action.

The board asked administration to keep members informed as the mayor's recommendations move through municipal processes.