Posted: 7/24/07
Change orders approved
for energy project
By Jane Palen
Managing Editor
The school board approved two change orders for its energy efficiency project at its regular meeting July 16. Michael Engineering is in charge of the project.
The first change order, in the amount of $15,600, is to backflush all heat pump heat exchangers to remove debris. Superintendent Michael Moriarty said that there was rust in the piping which was removed with a cleaning solution, and debris settled in the heat exchangers. Removing the debris will eliminate the need for strainers on the pipes, said Moriarty.
The second change order for $4,700 is to disconnect two circulation pumps, starters, an air separator and two heat exchangers and to deliver them to the school for salvage or future use.
The changes bring the cost of the project to $187,200. It is expected to be completed in three weeks.
The modifications to the middle/high schoolís geo-thermal system are being made in the interest of energy efficiency. The district expects to save about $51,000 per year with the modifications. The district currently spends about $7,000 per month for heating and cooling.
Teacher negotiations
Board member Charlie Wray reported that the bargaining committee for the teachersí union and the negotiating committee of the board have met and exchanged proposals. There was discussion on changes to contract language regarding health care coverage, supervision duties, and other items. The committees will meet again to discuss salary, said Wray.
Other business
In other business, the board:
ï approved the purchase of a school van from Ellingson Motors for $18,300;
ï approved the new school handbooks;
ï accepted the resignation of Arnold Lundtvedt as lunch-hour custodian;
ï approved contracts with coaches for fall sports and co-curriculars;
ï reviewed and awarded bids for bread, milk and gasoline.
ï approved a school crossing guard agreement with the City of Caledonia.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com