In a recent Building Committee meeting held on July 16, 2025, Middletown Public Schools addressed significant budgetary concerns regarding flooring contracts for upcoming school projects. The discussions centered around two major flooring packages: wood flooring and epoxy flooring, both of which exceeded their projected budgets.

The committee recommended awarding the wood flooring contract to Kenbo Floor Company for $561,060, which is $158,960 over the estimated budget of $402,100. This discrepancy raised questions among committee members about the reasons behind the budget overrun. Factors such as rising material costs and limited competition—only two bids were received, with the second bid being nearly $350,000 higher—were cited as contributing to the higher price. The committee emphasized the importance of quality, particularly for the gymnasium floor, stating that it is a long-term investment that cannot be compromised.

Additionally, the epoxy flooring contract was recommended to Allegheny Contract Flooring for $291,612, which is $123,100 over the 60% budget. This package faced similar issues, with only one bid submitted due to its specialized nature. The lack of participation from Women-Owned Business Enterprises (WBE) and Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) in both flooring contracts was also noted, raising concerns about inclusivity in the bidding process.

The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by the school district in managing construction costs amid fluctuating market conditions. As the committee moves forward, the implications of these budget overruns will need to be addressed, particularly in terms of funding and project timelines. The committee's decisions reflect a commitment to maintaining quality standards while navigating financial constraints, a balancing act that will be crucial as the projects progress.