Lewis Central board opens public hearing on high school roof; bids due Jan. 15

At a public hearing, Lewis Central Community School District staff announced plans to replace about 47,200 square feet of roofing at the high school and described the bidding timeline and budget estimate.

The superintendent said MZYR Architects prepared the scope and that the architect estimate is $650,000. "MZYR architect is the one that does the roofs for us," the superintendent said, and staff reported that bids are out and are scheduled to be returned on Jan. 15 with an option for board approval at the Jan. 19 meeting.

The superintendent told the board the immediate priority is the high school roof; other buildings including the middle school, Titan Hill and others were described as being in better condition. Staff said some backside roof areas may be reviewed but no additional major roof projects are expected in the near term if bids come in favorably. The presentation noted the district’s recent experience with bids for prior roofing projects coming in under budget.

District staff also discussed sequencing and logistics: if crews must use interior spaces while work is underway, some classrooms or weight-room activities could be temporarily moved, and the district will evaluate whether to include the small gym in the same contract depending on final pricing. The superintendent said the district will issue a bid package and, once a vendor is selected, the contractor will be responsible for erecting and completing the roofing work.

The board did not take final action during the hearing; staff asked the board to expect an approval option after bids are returned and recommended proceeding with the procurement timeline so work can be scheduled for the upcoming construction season.