Northfield district outlines $121.6 million construction plan, bids due March 26

Director of finance Val Merdserf told the school board on March 9 that voter-approved construction questions will fund a multi-part project including a music addition, demolition and renovation of wings in the main building, an expanded gymnasium and geothermal work.

Merdserf said the district is projecting about $77,000,000 in direct construction costs, roughly $95.8 million in total project costs and an overall program budget of approximately $121,600,000. She said the district expects to spend about $39.5 million in the July 2026–June 2027 fiscal year and that standard construction retainage (5%) will be withheld until project completion and compliance with specifications.

Bids for multiple trade packages are already out, with bid opening scheduled for March 26; Merdserf said the board will review bids and approve contracts before construction begins, which the district plans to start the day after school ends this summer. She said the district has received $2,000,000 from a donor pledged in a historic donation from Carlton and that interest and bond-sale timing improved the district’s projection by roughly $4,000,000 compared with earlier estimates.

Superintendent Dr. Hellman and board members asked about timeline and risk. Merdserf warned that renovation of existing systems often reveals unanticipated conditions and said the additional funds provide a buffer if unknowns arise. She said the district worked with consultant Walden Knutson on cost phasing and draw schedules and will return to the board if projections materially change.

Merdserf closed by noting the district expects to sell another bond in May 2027 and to update the board with revised budgets if bid results require it.

The board was not asked to take action on March 9; the construction fund budget will be listed for approval at the board’s May 11 meeting.