In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant updates regarding the repair of a damaged athletic track, which was found to have unexpected issues beneath its surface. The repairs, initially estimated at over $200,000, required additional contingency funds due to the discovery of deeper cracks during the milling process. The board approved these funds to ensure the track could be fully repaired and warrantied, allowing for a longer lifespan of the facility.

The contractor, Raccortin, indicated that without addressing the underlying damage, the track would not be covered under warranty. The repair work, which included milling the top layer and patching deeper cracks, was completed just in time for the upcoming home game scheduled for August 30. The team mobilized quickly to ensure the project was finished before adverse weather conditions could impact the work.

During the meeting, officials emphasized the importance of maintaining the track and preventing future damage. Discussions included implementing policies to restrict the use of cleats and food on the track, as well as ensuring proper signage to protect the facility. There was also a call for ongoing training for staff to promote stewardship of the new facilities.

In addition to the track repairs, updates were provided on various projects, including the installation of vape detectors in school restrooms and the upcoming renovations of central bathrooms. The board is preparing for a comprehensive review of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to address future maintenance and upgrades across the school division.

Concerns were raised about the need for additional operational staff to manage the increasing number of projects effectively. The absence of a dedicated procurement office was noted as a potential bottleneck in project management, highlighting the challenges faced by the division in maintaining its facilities and ensuring timely completion of necessary upgrades.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of officials to enhance and maintain school facilities while addressing the logistical challenges that come with managing multiple projects simultaneously.