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Colton SD 53 hears $17 million facilities estimate; board weighs HVAC quotes and school consolidation
Summary
The district's long‑range facilities committee told trustees a full 'fix‑everything' estimate is about $17 million; HVAC work at the elementary could range from $2.5 million to $4.2 million, while members discussed prioritizing seismic work, seeking detailed breakdowns and studying consolidation of three campuses into two if enrollment trends continue.
The Colton SD 53 long‑range facilities committee presented an initial cost picture that could reshape the district’s capital priorities. Michelle Young, who said she serves on the long‑range facilities committee, told the board that a full, district‑wide “fix everything” estimate is “somewhere in the tune of if we fix everything would be $17,000,000 for all the schools.”
Committee members said they have collected industry quotes and are preparing more formal scopes of work. The elementary school’s HVAC needs were highlighted: preliminary contractor ranges discussed at the meeting varied from roughly $2.5 million to $4.2 million depending on whether a partial update or wholesale system replacement is required.
Trustees and staff discussed how the district would prioritize projects if it receives a seismic grant (applications were in process) and whether to focus on HVAC, seismic upgrades or other capital needs. Finance and facilities staff said two seismic grant applications were submitted—one prioritized for part of the main building and another for a gym area—and the district expects to learn decisions around early May.
The conversation also turned to enrollment and potential consolidation. Board members and committee presenters referenced enrollment declines since pre‑COVID levels and compared Colton’s budget and per‑pupil spending to nearby districts, noting consolidation scenarios (for example, two campuses instead of three) could deliver operating savings but raise questions about class size, safety and instructional configuration. The committee emphasized the need for more precise, contractor‑level estimates, input from teachers and the community, and phased planning before moving to major capital decisions.
Next steps: staff will return with detailed cost breakdowns, updated engineering scopes (HVAC assessment and seismic assessment), and timeline options; the board asked for a clear prioritization and potential funding plan to consider during the upcoming budget cycle.
