The new track
Cost estimate for grading on the track, previously estimated by Ulland Bros. at $77,896, has been upped to $93,173, an increase of about $16,000.
This change in the price tag resulted from the discovery that the track needed a 2” bituminous surface rather than a 1-1/2” surface, as was previously thought. Also, it was discovered that the old top can’t be recycled into the new grade.
Even so, the cost is still well under what the track authorities estimated, according to Superintendent Kevin Wellen.
The bituminous surface was scheduled to be finished this week (and is done as of this printing) and the poly surface, running surface and lining will be finished some time into the school year.
The total bill for the new track now amounts to $164,572.
Other construction
The blacktop for the new storage facility at Ellendale was also scheduled to be done this week, Wellen informed the board at the meeting.
Wellen also reported that permission was acquired from Steele County to allow two entrances for the new parking lot. The access road is a county highway, so a variance was required, and was granted.
Upon completion, it will be possible for all bus loading to be done off-street. Because it involved safety improvements, the parking lot is eligible for funding with Crime Levy dollars. “This is the same money that bought our security cameras,” Wellen said.
One set of iPads has been purchased, and the purchase of a second set is awaiting the outcome of requests for grant money.
Fiscal 2011 Audit
A revised letter of agreement for the fiscal 2011 audit was approved. The district has already seen higher audit costs as a result of receipt of Stimulus dollars.
“We’re done with that,” said Wellen, “until FEMA reimburses us for the flood damage.” That will require an additional audit.
Truth In Taxation hearing
The Truth In Taxation hearing, typically set for the first Monday in December, was approved for December 5. The district isn’t required to hold a Truth In Taxation hearing when the levy increase is less than a given percent.
“We’re probably underlevying this year,” said Wellen.
But Wellen and the board agreed that it was a good idea to hold the hearing anyway, to give citizens a chance to examine the budget situation, which has been made complicated by the vicissitudes of fluctuating Federal funding.
