Buildings and Grounds committee forwards recommendation to modernize Germantown High School elevator No. 2

The Germantown School District Buildings and Grounds Committee voted April 14 to forward a positive recommendation to the finance committee to modernize elevator No. 2 at Germantown High School.

Frank Lord, a district facilities staff member who presented the proposal, said the elevator — installed in 1998 — has suffered repeated outages because replacement components are no longer manufactured. He told the committee the planned modernization would replace the cab, controller, fixtures, door operator, traveling cable, hoistway and machine-room wiring to restore reliable service and improve safety.

"The elevator is a 1998; elevator lifespans are in the 15‑to‑20‑year range — we've gotten our use out of it, but it's time," Lord said.

Staff issued a request for proposals to three qualified elevator contractors; one quote had been returned by the meeting but the RFP window was still open. Committee members emphasized the project will likely be expensive and suggested the finance committee review cost estimates and prioritization before an award.

Committee members also discussed timing: staff described the work as a summer project when crews are available and disruption to building operations is minimized. Lord said he will present the recommended bid award to the finance committee if the Buildings and Grounds committee’s recommendation is accepted.

The committee’s motion to forward a positive recommendation passed by voice vote. The committee did not record a roll-call tally in the meeting minutes; the motion was announced as carried.