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Storm recovery and HVAC repairs cost Toms River district an estimated $50K–$60K
Summary
Facilities staff told the board storm response across 22 locations and 248 buses required contracting loaders, temporary heaters and parts with estimated extra expenses of about $50,000–$60,000; staff said they will explore DOE/FEMA reimbursement options.
Facilities leaders told the Toms River Regional School District board Feb. 18 that recent snow and ice storms required extensive recovery work across the district and led to substantial extra costs.
Mr. City (facilities lead) described mobilizing staff and outside contractors to clear large ice and snow piles, purchasing 33 room heaters for classrooms where boiler-related coil failures occurred at Cedar Grove, and running 24-hour building checks to prevent flooding. Staff reported 13 classroom coils at Cedar Grove burst when a boiler went down; temporary heaters were installed and temperatures were monitored until permanent repairs could be made.
Facilities staff estimated storm-related extra expenses, including salt, rented loaders and contractor costs, at roughly $50,000 to $60,000. They said the district is evaluating whether the Department of Education and FEMA partial-reimbursement processes apply in this case and welcomed DOE guidance if state emergency declarations lead to eligibility.
Board members asked about capital reserves and maintenance reserves; staff said they had not tapped maintenance reserves and that capital reserve projects (boilers and switch-gear) remain scheduled for summer work. Questions about lighting upgrades, including a recent parking-fixture retrofit at Silver Bay, prompted staff to confirm planned pre-bids and potential fixture adjustments for Hooper Avenue Elementary.
Board members praised grounds, custodial and transportation crews for rapid response and safety-focused decisions during the storm.
