Board approves series of capital purchases: percussion, UPS batteries, HVAC repairs, track pits and buses

Following adoption of the budget amendment, the Marshall Public Schools board approved multiple capital purchases on Feb. 9.

Music department: The district recommended purchasing percussion upgrades and replacements from Steve Weiss Music for about $47,870. The CourtRight Foundation provided $45,803.80; the district will cover the remaining roughly $2,000 from the music budget and deferred revenue. The board approved the purchase by voice vote.

Technology: The board authorized replacement of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) batteries at a cost of $17,662.50 through Vector. E‑Rate funding is expected to reimburse 85% of the purchase; the remaining 15% will be covered by the general fund. District staff noted industry guidance recommends battery replacement every five years and that several existing batteries are no longer holding a charge.

Facilities and athletics: Trustees approved restoration of three Marshall High School air handlers for $181,015 using the Omnia cooperative purchasing contract, to be paid from the sinking fund. They also approved up to $31,525 for new high‑jump and pole‑vault pits; funding sources cited were $16,000 from Marshall Athletic Boosters and $15,525 from the Merriam Brown Trust Fund.

Transportation: The board approved purchasing two 77‑passenger buses currently leased for the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy (MYCA), including extended warranties, for $175,908 from the general fund. Leases expire July 2026; the purchase will be processed in the FY26–27 cycle.

All items were approved by voice votes with no opposition recorded. Staff provided funding breakdowns and noted expected timelines for procurement and installation.