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NEW CUMBERLAND -- Physical improvement projects are continuing to move forward for Hancock County Schools, with the latest project bid approved by the board of education Monday.
The school board unanimously approved a recommendation from Superintendent Dawn Petrovich for a contract with Lombardi Development Co., at a cost of $5,992,000 for the Weir High School physical education addition project.
The bid wasn't accepted without some questions from the board, however, with board Vice President Ed Fields, noting the cost was still over the $4.8 million previously allocated. Fields added there also is the potential for increased costs once the project is under way.
In response, Director of Facilities and Maintenance Mark Dziatkowicz explained they are looking at options for saving on some areas, and plan to negotiate those aspects once the project is able to move forward.
"There are a few places we think we can save," he said. "We have to award the contract first before we can negotiate."
Joe Campinelli, chief financial officer, explained the project's funds primarily are provided through the county's Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund allotment made available through the CARES Act, but there is always the possibility of freeing up funds once other projects are completed.
"The baseball field will be complete, so that will free up some money," Campinelli said, noting budget carryovers may also provide some wiggle room.
Campinelli also warned there is a deadline of November 2024 to spend those ESSERF dollars, or they will be taken back.
"We certainly don't want to lose it," he said. "We'll have some things I think we can do to make it work."
During a work session held by the board in March, it was explained the addition would be built on the side of Weir High School closest to Jimmy Carey Stadium, and include a multi-purpose area, as well as an auxiliary gym, a new weight room and a new area for cheering practice. There also are plans for a new trainer's room and office.
Board member Jim Horstman, noting a $6,000 difference between the bid from Lombardi and the next lowest bidder, raised a concern as to whether the use of union labor had ever been an issue on the projects. Dziatkowicz responded, saying the board can't make its decision based on whether a contractor uses union workers.
Fields said he feels it is time for the project to move forward, no matter who is selected.
"I think it's time to get off the pot. We've studied it enough," he said.
As with other ongoing construction projects undertaken in the last few years, the board is working with McKinley and Associates on the expansion.