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DelVal board moves to pursue state funding for alarm replacement; approves $31,000 rail change order tied to broadband project
Summary
Board discussed replacing a failing fire‑alarm system and the timing of a November referendum to secure state debt‑service aid; members approved a $31,000 change order for fall‑protection railing to allow a state‑funded broadband/roof project to proceed.
The Delaware Valley Regional High School District board discussed a capital plan to replace an aging fire‑alarm system and moved to pursue state review and potential referendum funding that would cover a portion of the cost.
Operations staff reported revised quotes for a full replacement ranging from about $730,000 to $975,000. The administration said the district could apply for state debt‑service aid that would cover roughly 34% of eligible costs and recommended submitting a capital project application to the Department of Education and amending the long‑range facility plan so the project could be eligible for state funding.
"If we get the state to pay some portion, you're almost doing the fiduciary responsibility to do it," one board member said during discussion of timing and messaging. The administration warned that Department of Education approval timelines could make it difficult to place a ballot question on next November's ticket without quick action.
Because roof work cannot proceed until a permanent fall‑protection rail is installed, the board considered an addendum change order to include that railing under the district's state‑funded broadband project. The board moved and approved the $31,000 change order for fall‑protection railing; administration said that change order would be submitted as part of the broadband project budget and is expected to be eligible for 40% state reimbursement.
Facilities staff also reported a paving quote of $49,092 to repair potholes and uneven pavement near the Hutchins entrance; transportation‑consortium funds were discussed as a potential source.
Next steps: administration will submit the capital project for Department of Education consideration, hire bond counsel and a financial adviser if the referendum route is chosen, prepare public messaging and FAQs, and seek board action in June as needed; the board approved the change order to allow roof work to proceed.
