Scott City board reviews bids for safe room furnishings

Scott City School Board members Wednesday reviewed bids for a sound system, seating and curtains for the district's performing arts theater/Federal Emergency Management Agency safe room.

The board asked superintendent Diann Ulmer to enter negotiations with the Bulte Co. of St. Louis on the seating. Ulmer said the district is looking at about 300 seats, but that could vary based on the size.

The board selected Collins Music in Sikeston, Missouri, to provide a sound system that will cost $17,771, including installation, Ulmer said.

One bid was received for a curtain system, which came in over the target price of $25,000, so the board decided to postpone action on that to see if more bids can be obtained.

Ground was broken on the performing arts center/safe room project June 16. The contractor is Zoellner Construction of Perryville, Missouri, and the contract amount is $2,059,000.

The district has been saving funds for the project as it is responsible for the 25-percent match in the grant, meeting minutes said.

On a separate bid, the board approved going with Canedy Sign and Graphics for a new district marquee. The bid came in at $22,264, and the board agreed to approve it on the condition that it provide a five-year warranty for parts and labor.

In other business, Ulmer told the board that according to preliminary figures, the district's assessed valuation could rise by $3 million, making its flat state funding a wash.

Gov. Jay Nixon in June withheld increases in state funding for school districts.

The board in June approved the 2014-2015 budget, which projects revenue of $8,877,688 and expenditures of $9,614,426. The revenue numbers reflect the building of the safe room shelter, including FEMA's $1,397,657 reimbursement, minutes said.

Also Wednesday, the board approved a 5-cent increase in breakfast and lunch prices.

The panel decided to keep its membership with the Missouri Association of Rural Education and voted against joining the Missouri School Boards' Association.

rcampbell@semissourian.com

388-3639

Pertinent address:

3000 Main St., Scott City