Kennett Consolidated reports $4.47 million in bills (including $2.8M bond payment); New Garden and Greenwood projects progress

At the Dec. 2 meeting Treasurer Mister Tracy summarized the district’s financial position and bills for the period ending Nov. 22 (cut off a week early because of the meeting date). He said the general operating bill list totaled $4,466,724.31, noting the amount included a $2.8 million bond payment and approximately $2.9 million in payroll disbursements for a three-pay month. Tracy said the district’s cash and investments were "a little over $71,800,000." He also reported the food service monthly net profit at $89,800 and a year-to-date profit of $261,417 but noted the district had not yet received Chartwells’ October and November invoices or federal school meal subsidies.

During facilities reporting, staff said Trium relocated the electric feed for the new Kennett High School sign to a less visible location and connected lighting; hardscaping and paver installation near the sign are in progress. New Garden Elementary construction is advancing with concrete walls nearing completion and second-floor decking being installed; Greenwood Elementary held a groundbreaking on Nov. 15 and construction has begun. District maintenance is preparing winter equipment and continuing an LED lighting conversion at Kennett High.

The board moved to approve the bill lists (general operating, capital reserve, capital projects and food service funds) and carried the motion by voice vote; no opposition or abstentions were recorded.

Board members noted the sign’s LED lights will be tested soon and that the district will provide training to operate the sign’s lighting options.