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After capital levy fails, Easton board votes to move forward with gym floor project pending vendor checks
Summary
The board discussed the failed capital levy, reviewed contractor bids and voted to proceed with a gym-floor replacement plan contingent on business-manager confirmation that procurement steps and final quotes keep the project within requirements; the motion passed by voice vote.
After reporting that a proposed capital projects levy did not pass, the Easton School District board discussed options to fund urgent gym repairs and a new floor.
Superintendent told trustees the capital levy did not "cross the finish line" and reminded the board that the district is on the senate’s capital list for a $6 million modernization grant but may not receive funding this year. With modernization funding uncertain, the board reviewed bids from several contractors for the gym renovation and flooring.
Facilities director Jeff Branson summarized vendor proposals and cost estimates, including line items for asbestos abatement, bleachers, relocation of basketball goals and flooring. Jeff said a comprehensive overhaul including new bleachers and abatement could total roughly $452,000 when abatement costs are included, while a more limited package—flooring, selected bleacher work, goal relocation and abatement—was estimated at about $348,000. Jeff noted that one vendor, Gifford Industries, offers a lifetime warranty on its floors; another, Branson Flooring, includes abatement in its proposal but offers a shorter warranty.
Business manager Nicole reminded the board that projects exceeding $350,000 require a formal advertised public works bidding process; staying under that threshold allows use of the small works roster and a simpler procurement path. Trustees discussed fronting costs from the capital projects fund (approximately $480,000 on hand) if the board chose to proceed while accepting some financial exposure should a future levy fail.
A board member moved that Jeff proceed with the gym floor project with Gifford Industries, contingent on Nicole confirming the vendor and final pricing and ensuring appropriate procurement rules are followed. The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. No individual vote tally was recorded in the transcript; board members voiced “Aye.”
The board also approved a package of staff-related policy updates and the annual WIAA membership resolution during the same meeting. The meeting adjourned after a brief executive session and final announcements.
