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Spencer–Owen board approves emergency removal and replacement of OVHS gym floor after water intrusion
Summary
The board authorized emergency work with Cincinnati Flooring to remove and replace a water-damaged section of the Owen Valley High School gym floor; initial estimate $177,453 plus up to $15,000 for bleacher removal and a possible insurance claim was discussed.
The Spencer–Owen Community Schools board voted unanimously to authorize emergency work to remove and replace a damaged portion of the Owen Valley High School gym floor after staff found moisture and water under the surface.
District staff described discovery of bulging and uneven sections after a volleyball game and said Cincinnati Flooring — the original installer — performed an inspection, used an under-floor camera that revealed water and moisture, and provided an estimate of $177,453 for repair and replacement. The estimate also includes an option not to exceed $15,000 to unbolt and remove bleachers for access, the administration said.
Superintendent/administration (Mr. Taylor) said the district has contacted its insurance adjuster and requested a structural engineer to help locate the water source. "I'm at a loss right now... I'm looking for a needle in a hay stack," Mr. Taylor said, describing efforts to trace the leak and the use of dye tests, roof inspections and blueprint reviews to search for abandoned or hidden drains.
Mr. Taylor told the board the district will file an insurance claim and noted an earlier wastewater-related claim had a $100,000 limit; he said if this incident is determined by the insurer to be fresh water rather than wastewater, the district expects broader coverage. A board member cited Indiana Code 5-22-10-4 to justify using emergency purchasing procedures when conditions "threaten public health, welfare, or safety." The board voted 6–0 to approve the emergency authorization so Cincinnati Flooring could begin removal and mitigation work as early as the next business day.
Board members asked follow-up questions about insurance coverage, the adjuster’s timeline and possible FEMA involvement if wastewater is confirmed. Administration said the adjuster had already visited and requested a structural engineer; staff said they would pursue FEMA only if the claim met disaster or wastewater criteria and that final responsibility for uncovered costs would fall to district reserves (rainy day fund) if insurance limits were reached.
The board was explicit that emergency conditions permit a streamlined procurement process. The motion to authorize Cincinnati Flooring was moved by Rick, seconded by Jack, and passed 6–0. The board did not yet determine the final split between insurance reimbursement and rainy-day funds pending the adjuster and engineer reports.
Next steps: the district will host required assessments by the structural engineer, proceed with cutting up damaged floor sections so the source can be investigated, and keep the board informed as insurance and remediation outcomes become clearer.
