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Kutztown board hears contractor’s middle-school HVAC, alarm and envelope plans; minimal HVAC option to go on April 21 agenda
Summary
A construction manager presented three options focusing on HVAC, fire-alarm and building-envelope work at the middle school and supplied itemized pricing; the board directed staff to place at least the minimal HVAC-focused option and one other on the April 21 agenda for a vote.
Mark Alex, representing The Core, presented final cost estimates and scope options for a middle-school-focused renovation that centers on HVAC replacements, a fire-alarm panel upgrade and targeted building-envelope repairs.
"My name is Mark Alex with with the Core," Alex said as he introduced the finalized numbers and procurement approach. He described the firm’s use of Pennsylvania’s Guaranteed Energy Savings Act model, in which the contractor acts as design-builder and assumes responsibility for delivering agreed scopes and guaranteed costs.
Alex outlined three program packages: a full package including library and envelope work, a mid-level package with minimal library and envelope upgrades, and a minimal package that focuses largely on HVAC (classroom terminal units, band-room direct-expansion units, replacement of boiler pumps and select air handlers). He also offered two alternates — including a controls/network-engine upgrade and new kitchen cooling — and noted a $40,000 allowance to outfit renovated library space with furniture and equipment if the board chose that option.
During board discussion Superintendent (Speaker 3) and several board members framed the work as a mix of needs and wants. The superintendent recommended prioritizing the district’s near-term “needs,” including HVAC and critical envelope repairs, given budget uncertainties and previous capital investments (rooftop units, chilled-water system and boilers were replaced in 2021 and are being retained).
Board members pressed the presenter on floor-plan details and scope boundaries. Alex confirmed that the minimal scope excludes library renovation but includes the network-engine controls upgrade. Board members also asked about local contractor participation and prevailing-wage requirements; Alex said the project uses micro-packages and solicits multiple prices for subcontracted portions and that locally preferred contractors can be considered during procurement.
Concerns were raised about a concrete patio that appears to be letting water into a lower-level classroom; the presenter recommended re-sealing and wall repairs rather than a cosmetic fix. A separate question about energy savings clarified that the chart shown represented estimated total savings over 20 years.
After discussion the board agreed at the meeting to list at least the minimal HVAC option and one additional option on the April 21 meeting agenda so members can vote after receiving the prepared materials and pricing comparisons. The district will post options for public review ahead of the vote.
