Board authorizes phase 1 of preschool restroom project, caps spending at $45,000

The Bradford Exempted Village school board on Monday authorized the superintendent to select and hire contractors to build phase 1 of a preschool restroom project with a not-to-exceed cost of $45,000.

The authorization, introduced by the chair, was approved by roll call with all members present voting in favor. The move is intended to speed work so the district can meet a June 30 deadline tied to a grant that requires the project to be substantially complete by that date.

A staff member explaining the plan said the administration is still awaiting final architect plans but outlined the concept: add two toilets and a sink in the existing vestibule/porch area, convert a window into a doorway and create an entry vestibule. "We have a June 30 deadline to fulfill the grant to be substantially completed," the staff member said, urging a quick start to preserve eligibility.

Administrators also told the board that, by keeping the contract value below $50,000, the district may avoid formal competitive bidding, which would help accelerate procurement. "If we stay below that $50,000 threshold, we don't have to bid," the staff member said.

The board approved the motion after brief discussion; the chair called the motion, it was seconded and passed by roll call with unanimous support. The authorization permits the superintendent to select contractors and begin work up to the approved cap.

Next steps noted by administrators included finalizing plans with the architect, beginning procurement consistent with the project budget and grant timelines, and returning to the board with updates as work progresses.