Sweetwater County SD#2 board clears path to bid CTE shop HVAC, dust‑collection and electrical upgrades at GRHS

Superintendent Cooper presented plans to use major maintenance funds to address end‑of‑life infrastructure in Green River High School's CTE areas — welding, auto and woods shops — citing worn HVAC, dust collection and electrical systems and a need for improved air quality. "Welding is in the most need of a more cleaner air situation... the welding shop is in dire need," Cooper said, urging the board to allow bids to proceed this summer so critical HVAC work can begin.

Administration outlined a range of procurement options: single‑contractor bids to complete the entire package (HVAC, electrical, dust collection and minor wall removal), or individual contractors bidding on discrete elements. Cooper said major maintenance funds are legally restricted to infrastructure work but that larger remodeling or expansion would trigger a state capital project process; she also reviewed rejected funding avenues (a federal grant attempt and constraints after state recalibration that limit use of long‑held local pre‑'97 reserves).

Board members discussed alternatives including grants, a bond and working with industry partners; several trustees emphasized the project's importance for student health and career‑readiness. A motion to go out to bid for the GRHS CTE major maintenance improvements passed by voice vote. The facilities committee will review incoming proposals and plan to return recommendations by the June board meeting.

Next steps: Bids will be solicited this summer and evaluated by the facilities committee; administration expects to return a recommendation to the board on June 9.