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School board approves soliciting bids to replace Huachula Elementary roof; Garland to return competitive proposals May 14
Summary
After questioning about districtwide roof conditions and funding, the board voted to move forward with soliciting bids for a replacement roof at Huachula Elementary. District staff said Garland Roofing will present competitive bids and plans to start June 1 with completion by Aug. 11 if a contract is awarded.
The Hardee County School Board on April 23 authorized soliciting bids to replace the roof on Building 1 at Huachula Elementary and directed Garland Roofing to return to the board with competitive proposals prior to contract award.
Superintendent Bennett summarized Garland's inspection of district roofs and said Garland had identified three roofs in need of work. Bennett told the board Garland had shifted its highest‑priority recommendation from North Huachula to Huachula Elementary after a recent on‑site assessment and that Garland would provide five proposals for the board to consider. "He will bring back May 14 five proposals or five bids that he believes will be relatively competitive given some of the markets right now," Bennett said. Garland estimated a June 1 start and completion by Aug. 11 so work would be finished before students return.
Board members pressed for clarity on the condition of other roofs. Bennett said the report shows North Huachula may require a full redecking and a significantly higher cost; Garland said North Huachula has more life in it than Huachula but would need more extensive work in 6 months to a year if not addressed. Bennett said district capital outlay funds are available and that large projects may require replenishing reserves or seeking appropriations.
Several members asked that Garland (and staff) present a full, districtwide roofing assessment in a workshop before the board awards a contract. The board scheduled a workshop for May 12 to review the assessments and receive explanation of the ranking and options; Bennett said Garland would be available to present the underlying reports. The board then voted to approve item 8.01 to proceed with soliciting bids; a final contract award is expected after the May 14 meeting when bids are reviewed.
Key details discussed at the meeting: Garland will produce multiple bids and is willing to adjust schedules to work evenings if needed; timeframe for Huachula was estimated at "6 to 8 to 10 weeks at max" if work begins June 1; North Huachula may need six months to a year and could require redecking. District staff discussed funding options including capital outlay, loans or appropriations requests to the state to help cover larger costs. No final construction contract was approved on April 23; the board approved moving to solicit bids and review proposals on May 14.
