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Weldon board orders replacement of new-school exterior panels after debate over repainting and costs
Summary
The Weldon City Schools board voted 4–3 to direct architects to remove and replace the new school’s metal exterior panels rather than paint them in place, citing warranty and longevity concerns. Cost estimates discussed ranged from roughly $200,000 to repaint in place to about $700,000 to replace — contingent on town financing and final project accounting.
The Weldon City Schools Board of Education voted to move forward with removing and replacing the metal exterior panels on the new middle–high school after an extended discussion about cost, warranty and school colors.
Architect and project staff told the board they had three options: remove and replace the panels, paint the existing panels in place after adhesion testing, or paint over the panels without removal. Staff said painting in place would likely carry a short warranty — around one year on the tests discussed — and that replacement would be more durable. The board was told a paint‑in‑place approach could cost about $200,000; removal and replacement was estimated at roughly $700,000, though staff warned final costs could be higher or lower once the project is complete and accounting is finalized.
Board members debated whether the money would be better used for other site features, including athletic-field lighting, which also carries estimated costs in the hundreds of thousands. Several trustees emphasized the district’s school colors and alumni expectations; others urged prioritizing educational uses for limited contingency funds.
A motion to remove and replace the panels passed by a 4–3 vote. Board members clarified the decision is directional: the architects and program manager will bring formal cost and scope documents back for review, and execution would be contingent on the final project balance and on whether the town of Weldon will agree to front certain sales-tax rebate funds to provide the district the cash flow needed for the work.
Board members and staff cautioned that some related costs (sidewalk repair, fixture reinstallation, or conduit work) could be required if panels are removed and replaced, and that any replacement work would likely need to occur when students are not on campus. The board asked staff to return with detailed cost estimates and contract language before signing any amendment to the construction agreement.
