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Boyertown Area SD to seek purchase order to replace Pine Forge boiler; IU to split restoration costs
Summary
District administrators told the board a boiler at the Pine Forge building (leased to the Berks County Intermediate Unit) failed and will be replaced; restoration invoices total about $50,000 and the district expects to cover roughly half (~$20,000–$25,000) under a 50/50 cost-share with the IU. Motions will be presented at the next legislative meeting.
District administrators informed the Boyertown Area School District board that a boiler at the Pine Forge building — a property leased to the Berks County Intermediate Unit (Berks IU) — experienced a malfunction that triggered the building’s blowoff valve and required restoration work.
Administration said the boiler itself was effectively destroyed and that smoke and water affected parts of the building; custodial staff and Amity Fire responded promptly so there were no injuries and structural damage appears limited. Berks IU and district facilities staff arranged immediate drying and repairs with a restoration contractor.
The administration reported multiple invoices inclusive of restoration work and the new boiler. Officials estimated the total invoices at about $50,000; under a previously agreed 50/50 split with the IU the district’s share would be approximately $20,000–$25,000. The IU has already paid part of its share, administration said.
Superintendent and facilities staff told the board they will present two motions at the next legislative meeting: one to issue a purchase order and authorize the replacement of the failed boiler (district acts as landlord), and a second motion to approve payment of the district’s share of restoration invoices. Administration said the expected replacement will be scheduled over the summer so the building is operational for the next school year.
A facilities liaison noted that one of two boilers remains operational and that classroom VRF systems have continued to provide heating/cooling, lessening immediate service interruptions. Board members asked about the cause of the failure; administration said the cause is not yet determined and that quotes had been obtained from multiple manufacturers. The recommended contractor and equipment were presented as direct replacements rather than upgrades, to restore functionality rather than invest in a building overhaul.
The board will consider the two motions at the next legislative meeting; if approved administration expects to order the boiler and to proceed with summer installation.
