Bond Projects Ready To Proceed

Bourbon has three large-scale bond projects that are ready to proceed.

The projects include constructing a new building at the high school, replacing some aging HVAC systems at the elementary and middle schools, and building a safety vestibule at the elementary school.

Chris Jerden of Facility Solutions Group, the district's engineering firm hired last year to oversee the projects, gave an update to school board members on Aug. 27.

Jerden said the new building is right on schedule.

Soil tests and a site survey are completed. He is hoping to have the documents finalized in the next six weeks.

New systems will be put in to replace aging and obsolete split systems at the elementary and middle schools.

Jerden said they would be installing a system that improves the air quality by releasing ions into the air, which grab onto pathogens or viruses and filter them out. 

The technology has been installed at other schools FSG has worked with, including St. Louis districts and Lindenwood University.

With the split system, Jerden said that it doesn't generate fresh air. 

On the safety vestibule, the school board has approved a bid from Heenan Construction.

Jerden is hoping it can be completed this fall.

Other renovations have been completed that were promised in the bond issue approved by voters, including restroom renovations and additional power at the middle school.

Every step of the way, Jerden said they have come under budget.

He told the board that they have avoided paying prevailing wage because they have broken the projects up.

"We're trying to spend your money as wisely as possible," he told the board.