During a recent government meeting, officials discussed pressing issues regarding the deteriorating condition of the roof and exterior bricks at Aiken School. Concerns were raised about safety, as parts of the roof were reported to be falling off, exposing rebar. This situation has persisted for approximately five months, prompting immediate action to remove hazardous materials for the safety of students.

The discussion highlighted the need for a comprehensive solution, with estimates indicating that a complete roof replacement for both Aiken and Vistedo Schools would cost around $5.3 million. Officials are considering the possibility of utilizing bond funds to address these urgent repairs.

The roof in question is described as a gravel type, necessitating both facade and structural repairs. While some funds, amounting to $3.6 million, were mentioned, it was clarified that these are already allocated for other projects and would not cover the roofing issues. Instead, the funds are designated for HVAC projects, which, under Texas government code, are classified as construction.

The meeting underscored the critical need for timely intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of students, as well as the importance of securing funding for necessary repairs.