Brooklyn Board approves $146,309 transfer to finish middle school generator after contractor flags safety gap

The Brooklyn Board of Education voted unanimously June 24 to transfer $146,309 to a non-lapsing account to complete the Brooklyn Middle School generator project after a contractor flagged a safety hazard.

Superintendent Raynor told the Board that Tower Generator "noted that a significant gap exists between the platform and the retaining wall, creating a potential fall hazard for technicians" and recommended installing an aluminum platform, railing and a stair with handrails. The Board agreed the safety work should be added to the project and approved funding to cover all remaining costs.

Treasurer/board clerk DiBenedetto reviewed the fiscal year 2025 picture, saying roughly 1.17% of the budget remained unexpended and about 95% had been expensed; she said remaining budget transfers to close the fiscal year will be presented at a future meeting. Board members approved the generator transfer on a motion by Dr. Perkins-Banas, seconded by Justin Phaiah; the vote was recorded as unanimous (5-0).

The minutes note the aluminum platform and related access work were estimated at about $30,000 and were included within the total project cost. The board recorded a separate unanimous vote to transfer $21,150 to a non-lapsing account to preserve funds budgeted for several technology projects that were delayed because E-Rate reimbursements had not been received; those projects include an outdoor wireless initiative and upgraded network management licensing.

Board members did not express further discussion on either transfer. The generator work is expected to finish in late August or September, per the superintendent's update, and required contract and procurement steps will continue as planned.