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Trustees debate natatorium fixes after summer complaints; AC replacement estimate cited at $3M
Summary
Trustees and facilities staff discussed repairs at the district natatorium, including a timing system ($115k–$150k) and an estimated air‑conditioning replacement cost of roughly $3 million; trustees weighed competing budget priorities but agreed the issue needs follow‑up.
Facilities committee members updated the board on ongoing capital projects and maintenance needs and trustees spent significant time discussing the condition of the district natatorium at Doggett Stadium.
Facilities committee reports noted routine construction (Trahan Transportation Complex, roof projects and new fencing) and that three bids for a scoreboard/timing system are under review. Trustee discussion shifted to the natatorium, where a combination of corrosion and an outdated HVAC design has left the pool area uncomfortable during summer programming. Facilities staff said a complete HVAC replacement would cost on the order of $3 million; a complete professional timing system for competition is estimated between $115,000 and $150,000.
Trustees acknowledged the natatorium is a community resource that hosts meets and summer programs across Southeast Texas, but they also questioned whether the district should fund a multi‑million dollar replacement now or prioritize other needs such as teacher pay and campus roofs. Trustee discussion included possible incremental approaches (temporary fans, summer programming changes) and the facilities committee said it would bring costed options when the board is ready to prioritize capital spending.
The board did not take an immediate spending vote; trustees asked facilities staff and the CFO for estimates and timing options to inform future budgeting decisions.
