RSU 23 to implement security upgrades and facility repairs after assessment; concession tower replacement planned

Superintendent John Suttie told the board that TJ Swenson of H.L. Security conducted a free safety and security assessment and reported being pleased with the district’s overall security and its camera and card‑entry systems. Suttie said the firm’s suggestions will be filed with H.L. Security; he described the written assessment as classified and said the district plans to implement changes over the summer to improve safety.

In committee reports, Building Committee chair Peter Flaherty said the Code Enforcement Officer determined the concession tower is unsafe and cannot be renovated. The committee is obtaining drawings and cost estimates and aims to finalize plans within about two weeks so the replacement project can be completed before the 2023–24 school year begins.

Peter Flaherty also outlined other planned summer work: carpeting and floor tile replacement, asbestos abatement at Jameson, a loading dock door installation at Loranger, parking‑lot lighting and LED exterior lighting at the high school, a new main/entrance door and carpeting, and exterior window tinting at all three schools as a security measure. Finance committee chair Dave Boudreau said the budget is in good shape and that he and the Police Chief discussed filling the School Resource Officer position; the Police Chief has been invited to the August board meeting.

The board did not place binding deadlines on the projects at the May 25 meeting; timelines and costs are to be developed by the committees and shared with the board.