The Timberlane Regional School District held a meeting on May 8, 2025, to discuss key projects, including significant renovations to high school bathrooms. The meeting began with a focus on the planning process for these renovations, specifically the approach to issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs). Two options were presented: one involves conducting an engineering study first, followed by a second RFP based on those specifications; the other suggests issuing a single RFP to hire a general contractor who would manage all aspects of the project.

The discussion highlighted the need for direction on which approach to take, emphasizing that a decision would help prioritize the RFP's content. The estimated budget for the bathroom renovations is currently set at $500,000, and there is potential to expand the project scope due to an increased budget delta.

Dr. Martin provided updates on three ongoing projects, including boundary fencing and roof repairs, noting that the bathroom renovation is particularly significant. He explained that for a project of this scale, it is standard to allocate about 10% of the budget for architectural studies and design, which would be separate from other necessary drawings and permits.

Principal John Becker and Assistant Principal Tim Brown then addressed the meeting, emphasizing the importance of student input in the renovation discussions. They noted that students have been advocating for improved bathroom facilities for several years, with recent surveys indicating a strong preference for single-stall restrooms to enhance comfort and privacy.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion on the proposed approaches to the bathroom renovation project, underscoring the importance of addressing student needs and preferences in the planning process. The board is expected to make a decision on the RFP direction in the near future, which will guide the next steps for the renovation project.