Board conditionally accepts $2.4M boiler bid for Grammar No.2 and approves bidding a $550K gym reroof
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Summary
Trustees conditionally awarded a $2.42 million bid for the Grammar No.2 boiler replacement (plus a $726,741 alternate) and gave permission to solicit bids for a Wells High School gym reroof estimated at $550,000; trustees debated timing amid consolidation and budget uncertainty.
The Elko County School District board conditionally awarded the bid to Charles Chester Plumbing and Heating Incorporated for replacement of the boiler at Grammar No.2, accepting a base qualifying bid of $2,419,905 and discussing a bid alternate of $726,741 that would upgrade electrical systems and add gym cooling.
Board discussion focused on procurement timelines (a 60‑day window after bids are opened), the technical necessity of replacing aging mechanical systems, and the fiscal tradeoffs of committing multi‑million‑dollar capital funds while possible school consolidations are under consideration. One trustee argued the district would be obligated by contract if approved and that capital funds do not save instructional positions; another said rebidding to delay action risked higher future costs.
After debate the board moved and seconded the conditional award (subject to submission of required contractor documents to district legal counsel). Several trustees registered dissent during the voice vote; the motion ultimately carried.
On a separate item the board authorized staff to go out to bid for a reroof of the Wells High School gym. Staff described the existing roof as 40–50 years old and failing; the work proposed is an encapsulation and membrane roof system with an estimated cost of $550,000 and expected 30‑year longevity. Trustees confirmed the project is budgeted from the capital improvement fund and that county matching funds are in place.
Administration emphasized that capital improvement funds are restricted and separate from general operating funds, and that pursuing matched capital projects is consistent with previously reported CIP priorities.