Board discusses referendum savings: cameras, curtain and audio bid estimates top priorities

At the June 23 meeting the Silver Lake Salem Joint 1 School District board spent an extended session reviewing potential uses for referendum savings and interest, with trustees and staff prioritizing safety‑related projects such as upgraded exterior cameras and replacement of a deteriorating stage curtain, plus audiovisual improvements to support school events.

Superintendent Chris Rattray outlined bids the administration has gathered and asked trustees for input on priorities. He described one professional audio bid that would replace the entire gym loudspeaker and control system for about $95,000; a stage‑only option from the same scope was quoted at about $65,000. Rattray said the administration is seeking additional bids before final decisions are made and that staff want a system that is simple to operate: "We need an easy button that we go up and plug and go, 'Hey, we're doing a presentation on the stage.'" he said.

Trustees also reviewed a Peak Systems proposal to replace curtains and upgrade stage lights for about $29,000, and staff cited a bid of roughly $39,000 for an epoxy floor in a basement area plus discussion of interior waterproofing. For security, the board discussed replacing the server and DVR to expand video‑retention from about two weeks toward 60 days and adding higher‑quality exterior cameras. One bid and staff estimates referenced an additional roughly $20,000–$45,000 to bring exterior camera coverage and server capacity to the desired level; the administration said donated Axis cameras from a neighboring high school could be factory‑reset and integrated into the new system to reduce near‑term cost.

Deputy Kirk walked the building with staff and participated in camera planning; trustees noted the safety‑focused intent of the referendum and suggested camera and re‑keying work be high priorities. Board members emphasized that such investments should align with the referendum’s safety promise to the public.

Several trustees also asked that bids be scrutinized and compared carefully. One board member urged colleagues to "go through our bids with a very fine‑tooth comb" and to seek alternate bids where appropriate to avoid unnecessary expenses.

What remains: The administration will seek additional vendor quotes for audio and camera systems, share complete bid documents with trustees, and return with refined recommendations. Trustees noted they have funds available for multiple priorities but requested fuller bid packages, clearer scopes and cost‑comparison information before authorizing capital work.

Context: The board also discussed broader facility priorities such as re‑keying locks to better manage access, ADA access options for the basement (chair lift vs. ramp or elevator), and marketing/branding investments connected to facilities work. Staff noted that the district approved a monument sign under the current referendum and has grant funds for curricular elements such as a $9,100 Lead the Way grant.

The board did not take final votes on any referendum projects at the meeting; items will return for formal approval after additional bids and scope clarifications.